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From an US$63.5M sale in Aspen, Colorado, to a £14.95M sale in London, England, here are significant sales represented by the Sotheby’s International Realty global network in September. Aspen, Colorado default " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/photo_online_001-1024x764.jpg" alt="Luxury mountain home nestled among snow-covered evergreen trees, illuminated at dusk against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains and a clear winter sky." class="wp-image-348447" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/photo_online_001-1024x764.jpg 1024w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/photo_online_001-300x224.jpg 300w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/photo_online_001-768x573.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/photo_online_001-1536x1147.jpg 1536w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/photo_online_001-2048x1529.jpg 2048w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/photo_online_001-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/photo_online_001-1200x896.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" Mandy Welgos | Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty, US$63.5M View properties in Aspen, Colorado Palm Beach, Florida Carole Koeppel, Brett Koeppel |Sotheby’s International Realty – Palm Beach Brokerage, US$40M View properties in Palm Beach, Florida Jackson, Wyoming Tom Evans, Ashley DiPrisco, Biz Doyle | Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty, Last asking price US$31.75M View properties in Jackson, Wyoming London, England Maria Oliveros | United Kingdom International Realty, £14.95M View properties in London, England Newport Beach, California John Cain | Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty, US$15.795M View properties in Newport Beach, California
With its refined symmetry, stone and clapboard façade, pitched slate-shingled roof, and abundant multipaned windows, this spectacular seven-bedroom home exemplifies the singular style of Greenwich, Connecticut. Daniel Milstein Photography " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/13.jpg" alt="entryway of Greenwich, CT home with parquet floors, featuring a fireplace with white molding, sculptural figures on the mantel, and round mirror with branches stretching outward, and a console table with various plants and a curved staircase in the background" class="wp-image-348436" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/13.jpg 1800w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/13-300x200.jpg 300w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/13-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/13-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/13-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/13-1200x800.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1800px) 100vw, 1800px" Were a dictionary or an architectural tome to fall open to the page defining “Greenwich style,” any photo featured there might well resemble those of this spectacular residence, which exemplifies that aesthetic’s telltale qualities: a home of refined symmetry with a stone and clapboard façade, a pitched slate-shingled roof, and abundant multipaned windows set amid nearly five acres of manicured emerald lawn and mature trees. Daniel Milstein Photography " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10.jpg" alt="grey and white living room with three sofas, two black and white coffee tables, various art and sculptural works set on the tables, and three cohesive black, white, and grey paintings on the wall behind" class="wp-image-348433" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10.jpg 1800w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10-300x200.jpg 300w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10-1200x800.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1800px) 100vw, 1800px" Greenwich, Connecticut| Helene Barre, Fran Ehrlich, Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage Traditional influences and modern luxury harmonize impressively in the home’s grandly proportioned 11,229-square-foot interiors. While the original construction dates to 2000, the residence was painstakingly rejuvenated in 2026 by veteran Palm Beach–based interior designer Scott Snyder, who complemented the elegant architecture with his beautifully balanced, impeccably detailed designs. Daniel Milstein Photography " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/12-1024x683.jpg" alt="primary suite in Greenwich home with espresso wood framed bed with gold and white bed linens, a fireplace and small seating area with abstract curved sofas and chair" class="wp-image-348428" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/12-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/12-300x200.jpg 300w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/12-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/12-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/12-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/12.jpg 1800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" A gated drive, a regal motor court, and a foyer with gracefully curving staircase, handsome parquetry, and a fireplace introduce the classical ambience that pervades the four levels. Highlights on the main level include a welcoming living room, a formal dining room with bay window, a billiards room, a family room with a fireplace, and a kitchen with an island, a butler’s pantry, and a sunny breakfast area. Six bedrooms are secluded on the level above, while the seventh is tucked among the eaves on the uppermost level. The primary suite features a fireplace, two sitting areas, access to one of the home’s multiple balconies, and dual spacious lavish baths—one with a sauna. Seeing that nearly every need or desire is attended to, the lower level boasts a recreation room with a rugged stone fireplace, a well-equipped home theater, an extensive wine cellar, and a superior-caliber gym with mirrored walls. An inviting terrace off the main level—which includes covered and open-air spaces—encourages outdoor living and entertaining. Further afield are a refreshing Roman-style swimming pool and spa, a chic pool house perfect for summertime gatherings, and a versatile sports court. Charming wood fences, landscape beds filled with flourishing flora, a dedicated garden, a serene koi pond, and groves of stalwart trees complete the idyllic picture of this quintessential Greenwich estate. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Greenwich, Connecticut | Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage From a landmark Bel Air residence overlooking one of Los Angeles’ most prestigious golf courses to a historic London address reimagined for contemporary living, this collection of exceptional homes highlights the breadth and diversity of luxury real estate around the world. Spanning iconic urban centers, private island retreats, heritage estates, and architectural masterpieces, each property offers a distinctive expression of place, design, and lifestyle. Bel Air, California Bel Air, California | Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage Situated above the fourth green of Bel-Air Country Club, 638 Siena Way is a striking contemporary residence designed by acclaimed architect Zoltan Pali. Completed in 2022, the home spans nearly 17,000 square feet and pairs refined materials such as Indiana limestone, travertine, bronze, and French walnut with dramatic walls of glass that frame sweeping city and golf course views. Resort-caliber amenities, including an infinity-edge pool, wellness center, theater, wine room, and multiple entertaining spaces, make this an extraordinary offering in one of Los Angeles’ most coveted neighborhoods. London, England London, England | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty Located within The OWO Residences by Raffles, this remarkable duplex residence blends historic significance with exceptional contemporary design. Created by acclaimed London design studio Banda, the home draws inspiration from the building’s storied past, incorporating vintage furnishings, bespoke details, and richly layered interiors. Expansive entertaining spaces, private terraces overlooking the city, and thoughtfully designed living areas create a sophisticated residence in one of London’s most prestigious addresses. Barcelona, Spain Barcelona, Spain | Spain Sotheby’s International Realty Steeped in history and reimagined for modern living, this extraordinary castle near Barcelona offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Catalonia’s architectural heritage. Set amid expansive grounds, the historic estate blends centuries-old character with contemporary comforts, showcasing grand stone facades, elegant interiors, and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Combining the romance of a European castle with the convenience of proximity to Barcelona, the property represents a truly exceptional offering in one of Spain’s most desirable regions. Greenwich, Connecticut Greenwich, Connecticut | Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage Set across more than 14 private acres just minutes from Greenwich Avenue, this spectacular Georgian Colonial estate offers the scale and amenities of a world-class country compound. Designed by Paul Stephan Marchese & Associates and built by Hobbs, Inc., the property includes a grand main residence, guest cottages, historic stables, a pool house, and tennis court. Elegant interiors, expansive grounds, and exceptional privacy combine to create one of the region’s most distinguished residential offerings. St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands | U.S. Virgin Islands Sotheby’s International Realty Surrounded by the natural beauty of St. John, this exceptional Caribbean retreat captures the essence of island living. Panoramic views, abundant outdoor entertaining spaces, and a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape create an atmosphere of tranquility and escape. Offering both privacy and convenient access to the island’s renowned beaches and natural attractions, the property represents a rare opportunity in one of the Caribbean’s most desirable destinations. Auckland, New Zealand Auckland, New Zealand | New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty A romantic landmark estate in the heart of Remuera, this extraordinary residence combines old-world European elegance with the grandeur of one of Auckland’s most celebrated heritage homes. Originally designed by renowned architect Roy Binney in 1914, the property is surrounded by manicured gardens, mature trees, a swimming pool, and a full-size tennis court. Inside, a grand ballroom, billiards room, wellness facilities, and a collection of refined entertaining spaces create a lifestyle that feels both timeless and resort-like. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
As design season gets underway, showing off prized possessions demands thought and skill—and good lighting, writes Kate Youde An Adrian Sassoon display at PAD 2025, London. Photograph: Yosuke Kojima. Part of the joy of collecting is the thrill of the chase. With the annual PAD London design fair underway and the Parisian edition of Design Miami returning soon, visitors will be on the hunt for collectibles in a range of categories from silverware to ceramics to display in their own home. A compelling collection can “bring an interior to life,” according to interior designer Phillip Thomas, telling “the story of the person that lives in the home,” he adds. “It almost gives the home a heartbeat, which would be lacking if it was just things that were procured by the designer without understanding the client themselves,” he explains. But what is the best way to display your pieces in a luxury interior? Thomas, whose eponymous US interior design firm is often asked to incorporate collections into high-end residential projects, says the right solution depends on both the proportions of the items collected and how they fit with the architecture of the space. Phillip Thomas devised a bespoke textured leather and zebrawood frame for a client’s guitar collection in New York City. Photograph: Brian Park Thomas seeks out “pockets within a home,” where he can elevate a client’s treasured objects, giving them the same respect the person has shown by collecting them. In a Long Island farmhouse, for example, he arranged beautiful old glass bottles on custom-built shelving not only to show off the collection but to help bring natural light from the living room into an interior stairwell through transom windows. Discovering another client’s passion for music, he used textured leather and zebrawood, stained grey and given a cerused finish using silver powder, to frame three electric guitars on a wall in the home office of their Upper West Side condominium in New York City. “They really stand out as works of art, not just utilitarian pieces,” says Thomas. Ceramics add depth and texture in this Phillip Thomas-designed garden room in Connecticut, U.S. Photograph: Genevieve Garruppo “It’s about creating brief stories within the interior about that collection, rather than the collection being the entire story of the interior,” says Thomas, who displayed pieces of 20th and 21st-century ceramics in multiple ways in a coastal Connecticut home. A large blue vase sits atop a pedestal in the garden room so its depth and texture can be admired from all directions, including from outside the expanded late-19th century house. The same room also includes groupings of ceramics, as do the living room and bedrooms. Thomas suggests pieces that have “a little bit of tension between each other” will capture more attention and make people pause to appreciate individual objects within a cluster. An antique plate arrangement by Rebecca Hughes in Hampshire, U.K. Photograph: ⓒ Astrid Templier Similarly, interior designer Rebecca Hughes displayed a collection of blue-and-white antique china plates, including pieces by Royal Delft and Spode, on a wall in the orangery of a Victorian country house in Hampshire, England. Adrian Sassoon’s namesake London gallery is showing collectibles including ceramics, glassware and silverware at PAD London. He advises displaying pieces in odd numbers, though adds that pairs can offer “a rhythm of different heights.” He also recommends breaking up the work of different artists. Sassoon asks his customers to think about how an object will appear as they walk into a room, when they will see more of its profile, at standing height and when they are seated. “If I’m actually in a room helping a collector place something, I would try that out,” he says. Collectibles on display at Adrian Sassoon’s stand at PAD 2025, London. Photograph: Yosuke Kojima Scale is a key consideration when selecting pieces for a home. Sassoon sells items that fit in the palm right up to monumental objects, including large-scale ceramics by British ceramicist and potter Felicity Aylieff, which stand on the floor. He says such pieces “look sad in a corner” and shouldn’t be placed against a wall. “These are so large, it’s quite like a person standing in the room,” he advises. Lighting is also crucial. Thomas might create a well-lit architectural niche for collectibles, for example, helping frame pieces “and give them more importance.” Conversely, poor lighting can fail to do a collection justice. TM Lighting, a specialist company working with private collectors globally, lights everything from jewelry to chinaware, coins to model cars. The choice of illumination, whether accent lights, downlights, freestanding lighting or linear LEDs integrated into shelves, depends on the objects on display, but cofounder Andrew Molyneux says the aim is to “minimise the distractions” to hold focus on the pieces themselves. Ceramic pieces are regularly rotated in this Phillip Thomas-designed interior, to keep collections looking fresh. Photograph: Genevieve Garruppo Color temperature, meaning the warmth of the light, plays a big part in ensuring lighting for a collection integrates with other design choices in the home, according to Molyneux. Whereas pieces in a gallery exhibition may be under “very neutral white light,” a much warmer, “cosy” light is preferable at home, he says. His company also ensures an object is lit as authentically as possible in comparison to natural light, and that there is consistency in the hue of the illumination used across a collection. Ultimately any display is shaped by an individual collector’s taste. However Thomas cautions that less is often more. No more than 60 of his client’s 100-plus ceramic pieces are displayed in their Connecticut home at any one time. These are swapped out often “to keep the space feeling fresh and different,” he says. “It’s like revisiting a friend that you haven’t seen in a while,” he adds. Our Collecting Focus series features expert advice on contemporary art, high jewelry, watches, wine, rare whisky, historic books, fashion history, natural history, Chinese art and antiques and Americana
On some 1.5 acres north of Beverly Hills, this enchanting estate lush with oak trees and colorful gardens has, since the early decades of the 20th century, enjoyed a notable ownership history, passing from one luminary to another. While the origins of the Pillsbury company—for more than a century a symbol of comfort and convenience—are firmly rooted in the American midwest, in the early 20th century, the dynasty did expand westward, with scions settling in the Los Angeles area in the early decades. One branch of the family tree purchased some 1.5 acres north of Beverly Hills and constructed a residence there—a fittingly charming place for a family whose name is nearly synonymous with nostalgia and welcoming home life—enveloped by live oak trees and flourishing gardens. The estate’s notable ownership history has continued over the decades since, passing from one Hollywood personage to another. Beverly Hills, California| Drew Mandile, Dean Mandile, Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage The current owners are Nicolas and Roxy Bijan, local luminaries in their own right. Nicolas is an entrepreneur, founder of the exclusive quiet-luxury menswear brand NB44, and co-owner of the legendary House of Bijan. Roxy—a Beverly Hills native and former television star—has established herself as an astute businessperson and highly regarded interior designer. The two brought their singular tastes and points of view to bear, which they began renovating during the pandemic, and Roxy conjured interiors that are uniquely warm, whimsical, and elegant. French doors throughout admit floods of natural light and connect the interiors with the colorful surroundings. Highlights include a living room with a fireplace and a wet bar, a glamorous formal dining room with Gracie chinoiserie wallpaper, a relaxed family room, an enchanting cook’s kitchen with top-tier appliances and Waterstone fixtures, a sunroom-like breakfast area, and an office with a striking deep green wall and a view of vibrant roses. The chic primary suite includes dual baths and closets—one a meticulously designed space with boutique-caliber lighted shoe shelving. Two additional bedrooms and a shared full bath are tucked upstairs. Contemporary comforts and conveniences abound, among them state-of-the-art security and audiovisual systems. The setting is a picturesque pastoral paradise, where—despite a location just minutes from Rodeo Drive and the Polo Lounge at the Beverly Hills Hotel—quietude prevails and deer meander peacefully by. The gated drive leads to a motor court that accommodates up to eight cars—a nod to the home’s prestigious provenance and history of entertaining. Idyllic spaces for outdoor living, dining, and gathering—including a grilling area—are enveloped by lush lawn and other flourishing flora. A freestanding one-bedroom guesthouse with its own well-outfitted kitchen affords thoughtful privacy for short- and long-term visitors. Further afield is a sports court, an enviable amenity for the pickleball enthusiast, one of many modern elements that, in union with the estate’s classic character and charm, represent this home’s undeniably enduring appeal. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
The wealthy are increasingly seeking homes in multiple jurisdictions. Choosing the right location means understanding the cost of luxury living across leading global destinations. Two new datasets can help with that. First up, the Julius Baer Lifestyle Index, featured in the Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report 2026 published by Julius Baer in July 2026, measures the cost of a luxury lifestyle across the world’s major cities by tracking the prices of a basket of luxury goods and services. According to the index, Singapore remains the world’s most expensive city for luxury living in 2026, followed by Zurich (up from fifth place in 2025) and Monaco, which replaces Hong Kong as the third most expensive global city this year. Sydney, Milan and Bangkok are good picks for lower-cost luxury living, according to the index. The second dataset is a September 2026 Sotheby’s International Realty® brand analysis of US$5M+ property prices in these prime locations. This reveals that Monaco, at US$6,581 per square foot, is the most expensive global city for luxury real estate, followed by Hong Kong (US$6,500 per square foot) and Zurich (US$4,330 per square foot). Of course, absolute cost is just one element in determining luxury value. “Increasingly, we see active adaptation: choosing where to live, where to spend, and even where to purchase luxury goods based on relative value across jurisdictions,” says Christian Gattiker, head of research, Julius Baer. “This mobility—both physical and financial—is becoming a defining feature of wealth in 2026.” Cover Property: Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty
“The Art of Refined Living” celebrates 50 years of Sotheby’s International Realty and the homes and people behind its success, writes Caroline Thorpe The Kaufmann Desert House in Palm Springs, designed by Richard Neutra in 1946. Photograph: © Dan Solomon What is the art of living? Since its inception five decades ago, Sotheby’s International Realty has been defining the concept as a partnership between fine art and property. This essence is now distilled in a new book, “The Art of Refined Living,” published by Assouline to mark the Sotheby’s International Realty brand’s 50th-anniversary year. It elegantly documents the evolution of the brand from its early success, breaking new ground to bring distinctive properties to global attention—no small feat in the pre-internet era. Author Gay Gassmann catalogs some of the world’s finest homes in these pages, each entrusted to Sotheby’s International Realty at one moment or another during the past half-century. Together, her choices seek to illuminate what makes a home distinctive: some alchemy of “architecture, provenance and place”—the textures of lives lived. Chef Julia Child’s French country cottage. Photograph: Beth Kirby Roaming across the U.S., Europe and as far afield as Australia, the architecture is strikingly varied. We encounter the modernist masterstrokes of Marcel Breuer, Frank Lloyd Wright’s only oceanfront property, and the dazzling facades of the late Zaha Hadid. Lush gardens by Beatrix Farrand and Miranda Brooks complement interiors as varied as their owners. And then there’s the sprinkling of stardust: discreet, but discernable. Jackie Kennedy Onassis on horseback at Merrywood; the sumptuous interiors of Tommy Hilfiger’s Connecticut retreat; and a roster of famous houseguests from Mick Jagger to Truman Capote. Each page is a reminder of the multifaceted nature of refined living, an accumulation of details as varied as the individuals who shape them. The rustic charm of chef Julia Child’s French bolthole contrasts with the quiet luxury displayed in the stone floors and timber accents of Stonebrook, a modern farmhouse in Brisbane designed by celebrated New Zealand architects Sumich Chaplin. Throughout the book, the interplay with art is ubiquitous. From the French chateau with walls etched by Picasso’s own hand to simple, considered design moments: a chalet-style box bed, nicknamed “the Heidi Nook,” in a child’s guest room in Napa. Collectively, these spaces have been crafted across centuries and adapted through many cycles of life. “Art is elevated by the quality of the walls that hold it,” writes Charles F. Stewart, CEO of Sotheby’s, in the foreword. What’s more, he adds, “a life well lived is shaped by the spaces that surround it.” Here are three of the exceptional properties—and a taste of the stories behind them—showcased in its pages. Château Lérins, Mougins, France Château Lérins. Photograph: © Courtesy of Côte d’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty Located on the feted French Riviera, Château Lérins epitomizes the historical richness and deep heritage of the Sotheby’s International Realty brand. What began as a dwelling for 17th-century monks was overhauled 300 years later by distinguished British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, with customary flourish. A double-height arched entrance hall, paneled library and terraced gardens were added, along with loggias and balconies. Illustrious owners have included French banking scion Guillaume Mallet, while the chateau, with its views of the Mediterranean Sea and Esterel Mountains, has counted Scottish actor Sean Connery and the Kennedy family among its visitors. Kaufmann Desert House, Palm Springs, California “Poolside Gossip,” 1970, by Slim Aarons, taken at the Kaufmann Desert House in Palm Springs. Photograph: © Slim Aarons/Getty Images Who knew an impromptu party would make a visual icon of Nelda Linsk? The onetime owner of the Kaufmann Desert House was immortalized in 1970 by photographer Slim Aarons in “Poolside Gossip,” his famous shot capturing a glamorous Linsk and friends socializing beside the pool of the Palm Springs residence. Built in 1946 of stone, steel and glass, this midcentury modernist classic by Richard Neutra aims to clash with its arid surroundings. Inside, a “pinwheel” layout revolves around a central living and dining room. Later owners included Barry Manilow, while the most recent completed a five-year renovation of the property. The pool’s swagger remains undimmed. Andy Warhol’s home, Montauk, New York Guesthouse interior at Andy Warhol’s former Long Island getaway. Photograph: © Evan Joseph A huddle of colonial revival cottages and a former fishing village occupying the furthest reaches of Long Island are an unlikely setting for the glittering cast who would descend there each summer. John Lennon, Elizabeth Taylor and Liza Minnelli were among the stars invited to stay in this modest oceanside enclave by artist Andy Warhol, who bought the then 30-acre property in 1971 as a summer escape. Today, the uniquely creative interiors still bear the mark of their famous former owner, with bold use of color and pattern accenting the whitewashed walls—and a framed print of Warhol, face hidden behind his beloved Polaroid camera, hanging on a kitchen wall. “The Art of Refined Living” is published by Assouline Why salons are making a comeback as a cornerstone of cultured living
Rather than the English countryside—where similar inspiring Tudor-style manors abound—this 17,121-square-foot residence enjoys a lush stateside setting on a prestigious thoroughfare in the coveted community of Greenwich. With its pitched gabled rooflines, enduring wood shingles, decorative half timbering, rugged stonework, boxwood-bordered gardens, and handsome masonry fireplaces, this majestic manor could easily be mistaken for a quintessential Tudor-style estate in the English countryside. Rather, the 17,121-square-foot residence enjoys a stateside setting on a prestigious thoroughfare in the coveted community of Greenwich, where it is enveloped by expanses of lawn, vibrant flowering plants, and groves of stalwart trees. Greenwich, Connecticut| Cate Keeney, Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage The home’s Old World façade also belies the aesthetics of the interiors, which maintain hints of classical styling—such as paneling, coffered ceilings, ornate vaulting, French doors, and surfaces of regal marble—but are otherwise uniquely chic and current. The skillful guidance of acclaimed designer Mar Silver imbued every room with an understated elegance, a modern minimalism, and a soothing subdued palette. The residence offers ample space for all ages and all manner of activities—from quiet contemplation to festive fêtes for a crowd—and no detail has been overlooked. Along with formal living and dining spaces, the floor plan features a sunroom, a den, multiple family rooms, a garden room, and two offices. The cook and entertainer will appreciate the bright atrium-like kitchen, which is accompanied by a dedicated breakfast room and walk-in and butler’s pantries. The vast level above is a virtual oasis in its own right with four bedroom suites, a playroom, an additional family room, and an impressive collection of walk-in closets. An entire wing is dedicated to the owner’s suite, which boasts sitting and dressing rooms, walk-in closets, and a generous, luxurious bath. In addition to multiple versatile storage spaces, the home’s lowest level includes a recreation room with an adjoining wine cellar, a media room, a massage room, and a gym. A stately white pebble drive lined with manicured boxwoods and shady magnolias leads to the vast motor court, which affords parking space for numerous vehicles. Linked with the main residence by a breezeway and the property’s three-car garage—with auxiliary storage above—the guesthouse provides welcome comfort and privacy for visitors with its sunny kitchen, living and dining rooms, three bedrooms—one of which currently serves as a recording studio—and a family room of its own. Award-winning landscape architect James Doyle lent his signature European inspiration to the lush emerald grounds, which brim with thriving flora and offer a dazzling oversized swimming pool and sun-swept terrace. In its original creation, the estate was reportedly inspired by the vast Gilded Age mansions of Newport, a quintessential vacation destination for America’s elite for more than a century. While similarly spacious and substantial, this retreat enjoys a more convenient location, 10 minutes from the town center of Greenwich—superlative and sought after in its own right—and less than an hour from the metropolitan epicenter of Manhattan. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Munich has the cultural cachet and convenience of a major city, but with a relaxed charm all of its own, writes Florian Siebeck Munich, Germany | Munich Sotheby’s International Realty Munich consistently ranks as Germany’s most livable city. Key to its appeal is how easily it slips between urban life and the outdoors. The Alps hover on the horizon, lakes and ski slopes are close enough for a day trip, and summer in the Bavarian capital is spent along the banks of the Isar river or under the chestnut trees of its beer gardens. The result is a city that feels noticeably more relaxed than its prosperous, polished image. “There’s a reason locals call it Italy’s northernmost city,” says Munich-based interior architect Justin Howlett, named in Architectural Digest’s AD100 list for 2025. “Munich has always been deeply attached to its traditions, but without turning its back on the world.” That balance is most visible come fall, when the city swaps cashmere for lederhosen and descends on the Theresienwiese for Oktoberfest—or the “Wiesn” as locals call it. For all its global renown, this beer and folk festival remains remarkably local at heart: a centuries-old tradition that Munich has somehow turned into a party for the world. Testament, perhaps, to the city’s enduring talent for enjoying the good life. Munich, Germany | Munich Sotheby’s International Realty One of Munich’s most coveted residential spots is Lehel, between Altstadt (the old town) and the river. “Despite being in the centre, Lehel retains the intimate feel of a neighborhood, with excellent cafes and restaurants tucked between ornate art nouveau buildings,” says Michael Reiss, managing director of Sotheby’s International Realty Bavaria. Howlett calls it Munich’s “sophisticated heart.” The district is home to some of the city’s most important cultural institutions, from the Haus der Kunst (House of Art) to the Bavarian National Museum. Hidden behind the latter is a 6,450 square foot whole-floor penthouse—“the largest currently available in Munich,” according to Reiss. Its wraparound terrace looks out across the treetops of the English Garden. “There’s almost a Park Avenue quality to it,” says Reiss. Munich, Germany | Munich Sotheby’s International Realty Equally verdant, though more rooted in Munich’s past, is Villa Riemerschmid. The art nouveau architect Richard Riemerschmid (1868-1957), who was responsible for the interiors of the Munich Kammerspiele theater in Altstadt-Lehel, created this home in Pasing, a leafy neighborhood to the west of the city. “The villa retains many of his original details,” says Reiss of the property, which has been carefully restored. “It’s surrounded by park-like grounds and entered through its own courtyard, so it feels remarkably removed from the city around it.” Munich, Germany | Munich Sotheby’s International Realty Nymphenburg, along the Schlosskanal, is an address where the name and architecture does the talking: quietly affluent, but never particularly interested in showing off. Weekends are spent over brunch at the Palmenhaus, a beer at the sprawling Königlicher Hirschgarten, or dinner at Acetaia, often talked of as the city’s best Italian restaurant. In winter, when the canal freezes over, locals even take to the ice for curling. Much of Nymphenburg’s cachet comes down to its eponymous palace, which gives this corner of the city an almost stately air. Few homes are more closely tied to it than an 1820s villa on the historic Schlossrondell circle of baroque mansions, looking directly towards the royal residence. Behind its period facade, the house remains largely empty, leaving its next owner free to restore it faithfully—or model something more experimental. Munich, Germany | Munich Sotheby’s International Realty A three-story maisonette in the same neighborhood has a contemporary feel, with floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto a south-facing garden. And Villa Élysée in Obermenzing, Nymphenburg’s smaller and more affordable neighbor, is a similarly turnkey option. “Architecturally, the villa is classical, but everything is absolutely state of the art,” says Reiss of this 6,000 square foot home. The property combines grand proportions—high ceilings, double doors and a light-filled living room—with luxurious amenities, including a wine cellar, cinema, sauna and pool. Munich, Germany | Munich Sotheby’s International Realty “Obermenzing has this unusual position between city and countryside,” says Howlett. “You still feel part of Munich, but there’s a completely different pace of life, almost like in a village.” As Reiss observes of the area: “It has a more organic, lived-in feel.” For Munichers, getting away from it all rarely requires a long journey. Nor does the city dictate or chase trends, Howlett adds, but is happy to be itself. “Munich offers everything one expects from a major city without ever quite feeling like one. That is perhaps its greatest quality, and what makes it so exceptionally livable.” From southern Germany to northern Italy—explore the design mecca of Milan
Our monthly series asks: How do you use color in luxury design? Monochrome is a classic pairing for a reason, writes Jill Krasny Lenox Hill, New York | Sotheby’s International Realty – Upper East Side Brokerage Some homes make a lasting impression while others quickly fade from the mind. Almost always, the design and color scheme is a factor. While burgundy adds a sense of warmth and glamour, navy feels versatile and timeless. Yet black and white—which our series on color in luxury design looks at next—may be the most classic pairing of all, evoking antiquity itself, says U.S. based designer-architect Nicholas Potts. “Though there’s debate about whether ancient buildings and statues were actually painted,” he says, “the image of the black-and-white classical interior is so embedded in our cultural memory” that it’s a constant in historical revivals or movements they inspire. Think Andrée Putman’s famous black-and-white bathroom for the founders of Studio 54 in New York’s Morgans Hotel or Dorothy Draper’s punchy pairing of checkerboard floors and Rhododendron fabric in West Virginia’s Greenbrier resort. Atlanta, Georgia | Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty The black-and-white look dominated the early 20th century art deco period and reigned supreme again in the 1990s. But demand for the pairing has never really gone away. “As the pendulum swings back from maximalism toward calmer spaces,” says Potts, “perhaps as a response to digital overload, we’re seeing more requests for monochrome spaces than we did a few years ago.” His go-to move: black-and-white tile in surprising configurations such as oversized tiles or on a diagonal, the better “to create some drama underfoot.” Lenox Hill, New York | Sotheby’s International Realty – Upper East Side Brokerage A sprawling penthouse, tastefully designed by Chilean-born American interior designer Juan Pablo Molyneux and steps away from Central Park, proves that occasionally committing to color may be overrated. “This is a very classic look,” particularly for a floor, says Potts of the creamy off-white walls and upscale living room furnishings. However, “it’s also highly adaptable and can be dressed up or down with different patterns or accents.” Bonus: Those who can’t commit to color often find black and white a safer bet. Century City, California | Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage On the opposite coast, in Los Angeles’ fast-growing Century City district, a sleek condominium in the gated Le Parc community shows the power of contrast. “This is crucial to pulling off a black-and-white interior,” says Potts, “since there’s no anchor color to fall back on.” He warns against softening it with anything grey, which he feels looks overdone. An eight-bedroom mansion in North London’s Highgate features traditional Art Deco flourishes, from the marble checkerboard floor to the wrought iron railings and stepped chandeliers. It even extends to the kitchen. Highgate, London | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty “The most classic pairing with a monochrome color scheme takes advantage of the white space it creates and goes really bold with accents,” notes Potts. In the Highgate house, the glass wall sconces—with their cascading fringe evoking a flapper’s dress—do just that. An original 1930s art deco villa in Provence, France, features panoramic views of the Mediterranean—and a trip back in time via its stunning and well-preserved black-and-white bathroom. Crisp boundaries like those of the black-trimmed arched window and boldly framed celestial-inspired tilework make it clear why this look still feels fresh. Provence, France | Côte d’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty Meanwhile, the exterior of a large home in Atlanta similarly turns heads with its brick facade, limestone detail and patinated copper awnings. In the foyer, the art deco theme continues with black-and-white marble floors and eye-catching millwork. The walls’ rhombus motif, typically seen in industrial buildings of the era, looks right at home here. Explore our Color Chart series: bold red, joyful pink, zingy orange, versatile turquoise, uplifting yellow, natural lilac, historic terracotta, classic green, calming white, sophisticated navy and rich burgundy
Photo: Kaori Hirakata Sotheby’s International Realty has announced that Punta Pacifica Realty, located in Panama City, Panama, is joining the network, and its offices will now operate as Panama Sotheby’s International Realty. This addition marks the brand’s 65th office in the Caribbean and Latin American region. Panama has emerged as one of Latin America’s most compelling luxury real estate markets, attracting international buyers seeking a combination of lifestyle, investment opportunity, and global connectivity. The market benefits from several global trends, including wealth migration, corporate relocation, retirement, second-home ownership, and international investment. The country offers a unique blend of cosmopolitan city living, beachfront communities, and mountain retreats, supported by a U.S. dollar-based economy, sophisticated healthcare infrastructure, and one of the region’s leading international airports. A new generation of branded residences, waterfront developments, and architecturally significant projects is elevating Panama’s luxury market, attracting buyers who view the country as both a lifestyle destination and a long-term investment opportunity. Panama Sotheby’s International Realty draws on nearly two decades of experience in Panama’s luxury residential real estate market. The firm has built a reputation through its representation of premier developments, longstanding client relationships, and deep understanding of the evolving needs of luxury buyers. Today, it serves clients across Panama’s premier residential and resort destinations. As part of its next phase of growth, Panama Sotheby’s International Realty plans to expand its presence across the country while growing its team of affiliated real estate professionals. The firm is led by Duncan McGowan, chief executive officer; Jeff Barton, managing partner; and Brian Kelly, vice president. McGowan first arrived in Panama in 1998 and later co-founded Punta Pacifica Realty, helping grow it into one of the country’s leading luxury real estate firms. Barton relocated to Panama in 2007 and led sales at The Ocean Club during a transformative period for the market. Kelly has called Panama home for more than 15 years and has played an integral role in the company’s growth. Ana Patricia Hassan de McGowan, principal broker, brings extensive market knowledge and has become a trusted voice in Panama real estate through Spotlight to Panama, an informative platform for those considering relocation. The leadership team’s track record includes overseeing the sale of the developer’s remaining residences at The Ocean Club and serving as lead brokerage for Ocean Reef Islands, Latin America’s first man-made residential islands. “Panama has become one of the most desirable destinations in the Americas for luxury real estate, appealing to buyers who are attracted by its global connectivity, investment potential, and exceptional lifestyle offerings,” said Philip White, president and CEO, Sotheby’s International Realty. “We are proud to welcome Panama Sotheby’s International Realty to our network and look forward to supporting the firm as it continues to serve buyers and sellers throughout the country.” “The Sotheby’s International Realty brand is the leader in luxury real estate, and with its unparalleled global reach, we believe this network is most beneficial to our clients and affiliated agents,” said Duncan McGowan, CEO, Panama Sotheby’s International Realty. “For nearly two decades, our team has been committed to serving clients through trusted relationships, local expertise, and exceptional service. Joining the Sotheby’s International Realty network allows us to pair our deep knowledge of Panama’s luxury market with one of the world’s most respected real estate brands, creating new opportunities for our clients both locally and internationally.”
This storied residence built in 1900 represents a singular opportunity to own a piece of San Francisco’s architectural history or to reimagine it for comfortable contemporary living and for generations to come. San Francisco may well be the 21st-century’s nexus of technology and progress, but this lovely grande dame enveloped by verdant trees in prestigious Presidio Heights recalls the stylistic heights of the city’s golden age, displaying the elegant flair of a bygone era at every turn. It represents a singular opportunity to own a piece of the Bay Area’s architectural history or, for the most discerning, to reimagine it for comfortable contemporary living and for generations to come. San Francisco, California| Neill Bassi, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage Built in 1900, the residence has a storied pedigree, designed as it was by noted architect Edward R. Swain, creator of the landmark Whittier Mansion—one of the few homes in the city to survive the 1906 earthquake—and the stalwart McLaren Lodge in Golden Gate Park. On a rare, exceptionally wide lot, it offers 7,350 square feet on four levels and is replete with dramatic period detail: bold wood beams, molding, and paneling; original oak floors; intricate millwork; stained-glass, bay, and arched windows; a grand staircase; seven fireplaces; plentiful built-ins; and vintage fixtures and fittings. Perhaps more enviable are the vistas that include the Golden Gate Bridge and the waters of the bay. Beyond a grand wood-paneled foyer are a formal living room, a light-filled sunroom, and a dining room with a coffered ceiling, wainscoting, alluring original built-ins, and a view of the bridge and the bay. Airy and bright, the kitchen and breakfast room open to a balustraded terrace that gazes out toward the water. Living and entertaining spaces continue on the ground level, with its generous family room, game room, laundry facilities, powder room, and versatile bonus room. Three peaceful bedrooms are secluded on the level above the main living spaces. Chief among them is a sunny, serene owner’s suite with herringbone-patterned oak floors, a wood-burning fireplace, south-facing windows, a spacious dressing room, and an en suite bath. Each of the two guest bedrooms here benefits from the charm of a Victorian fireplace. The highlight, however, is the majestic library, nearly circular in shape and distinguished by an ornate ceiling, vintage built-ins, a wet bar, stained-glass detailing, and a wide bay of windows offering a cinematic view of treetops and the Golden Gate Bridge. Tucked among the eaves on the uppermost level are two charming additional bedrooms and a shared full bath. Visitors will appreciate the privacy of the guest suite tucked away on the garden level. The vibrant multilevel garden includes peaceful terraces and—between the boughs of mature flowering trees and stately pines—enjoys glimpses of the bay. Steps from the Presidio and numerous shops and restaurants, this is an oasis of enduring natural beauty in the midst of the thriving activity of one of the most desirable, architecturally distinctive cities in the world. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
From rich autumnal color and tactile textiles to atmospheric lighting and spaces designed for retreat, Mandi Keighran explores simple tips for embracing the changing seasons Cotswolds, U.K. | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty As temperatures drop and the days begin to shorten, how we want our homes to feel also changes. In the same way that we might swap out linen shirts for cozy woolens in our wardrobe, this time of year offers an opportunity to introduce richer color palettes, softer textures and a sense of warmth to interiors. And creating more cocooning spaces doesn’t require a complete redecoration. Small touches, such as a rug underfoot, a velvet cushion, warmer lighting or even a new tablecloth, can all alter the mood of a room. The key to somewhere that both celebrates and offers refuge from fall’s more changeful elements is artfully layering these features, thereby crafting a space that makes staying home feel like a joy. Hudson Valley, New York | Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty “Creating a fall interior can be as simple as introducing clean flower and branch arrangements—think all white and green or dark burgundy,” says Barbara Sumner, an interior designer based in Portland, Oregon. “I also like to add a bit of dark brown, with some pillows and wood accessories and some heavy pewter or cast bronze pieces. Using color and tactile materials makes spaces more inviting and balances the experience as one moves from room to room.” Sumner’s advice on successful seasonal decor is to match any additions to the style of your property, rather than track too closely to trends. “A very modern home can take large mohair throws in a neutral shade and big plush pillows, whereas a cottage style deserves matelassé quilts or plaid wool pillows,” she says. “Changing just a few small details—throws, linens or scents—helps mentally transition through the seasons and creates a welcoming environment for our senses.” Layer up with textiles Cotswolds, U.K. | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty One of the easiest ways to introduce warmth is with textiles, from rugs layered over timber floors to sumptuous throws draped across sofas and piles of cushions. In the heart of the Cotswolds in the U.K., a beautifully reimagined barn by mother-daughter design duo Berkeley Hawkes combines rustic oak floorboards and chunky sisal carpets with soft wools, textured linens and velvets to create inviting, unpretentious interiors. Living rooms and bedrooms aren’t the only areas to benefit from these fabric shifts—a patterned curtain can conceal cluttered open shelving in the kitchen with a splash of seasonal color. Tablecloths and table runners are another simple add. Embrace autumnal color Hudson Valley, New York | Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty The colors of fall offer a natural starting point for seasonal decorating. As leaves change hue, the landscape offers a dramatic palette of ochre, burgundy, rust, tobacco and deep green. At Ulster Landing, a historic estate in New York’s Hudson Valley, a berry-red kitchen, ochre laundry and flower room, and indigo Antoinette Poisson wallpaper bring richness to the otherwise restrained design scheme. These deeper tones work particularly well as accents, meaning even new cushions or bedding can be transformational. Create a bedroom for hibernation Cotswolds, U.K. | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty Summer bedrooms are all about lightness and fresh air, while fall calls for a cozier take. Layered bedding, weightier curtains, and rugs underfoot can instantly change the mood, and darker colors work particularly well in naturally dimmer rooms. In this Cotswolds barn, for example, an attic bedroom deliberately embraces its limited natural light with a deeper palette, tactile fabrics and substantial drapes beneath exposed beams, creating a space that feels intimate rather than gloomy. Scent can also shift the seasonal atmosphere of a bedroom. “I always have a signature candle for spring, and another for fall that is musky and smoky,” says Sumner. “My favorite for fall is Ernesto by Cire Trudon.” Style a comfy snug Venice, California | Sotheby’s International Realty – Pacific Palisades Brokerage The snug has traditionally been associated with English country houses, but these smaller rooms designed for retreat translate effortlessly to contemporary living. In Venice Beach, a striking residence designed by AML Studio offers a West Coast interpretation of the snug. The bespoke media room is wrapped in walnut paneling, with comfortable seating and a fully appointed bar for movie nights or relaxed gatherings. Meanwhile, the home’s main living area features a wraparound sofa facing a statement fireplace—even balmy Californian fall calls for coziness. Don’t forget to layer your lighting Portland, Oregon | Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty As the day darkens earlier, lighting takes on a key role in shaping the atmosphere of a room. Rather than relying on a single source, combining lamps and wall lights at different levels creates overlapping pools of illumination and allows the mood to shift throughout the evening. Firelight adds another dimension, making fireplaces and woodburners natural focal points. A remodeled Portland, Oregon, home—originally designed by Wade Hampton Pipes, who brought English arts and crafts architecture to the area—has several, including a dramatic Nero Marquina marble fireplace in the family room. “Lighting is everything,” says Sumner, who reimagined the home’s interiors. “I try to be consistent in shapes—this house has ball shapes everywhere, for example. It helps connect the spaces and looks awesome from the outside looking in. Floor, art, task and highlighting lights are all necessary to create that warm fall glow.” On the scent: read about the rise of fragrance in luxury interiors
From a US$70M sale in Hillsborough, California, to a CAD22M in Toronto, Canada, here are significant sales represented by the Sotheby’s International Realty global network in August. Hillsborough, California default " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/DJI_20250516120129_0478_D-1024x575.jpg" alt="Mediterranean-style estate surrounded by mature trees and terraced gardens, featuring a grand central staircase, tiered fountains, arched windows, and formal landscaping viewed from above." class="wp-image-348176" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/DJI_20250516120129_0478_D-1024x575.jpg 1024w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/DJI_20250516120129_0478_D-300x169.jpg 300w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/DJI_20250516120129_0478_D-768x431.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/DJI_20250516120129_0478_D-1536x863.jpg 1536w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/DJI_20250516120129_0478_D-2048x1151.jpg 2048w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/DJI_20250516120129_0478_D-1200x674.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" Jennifer Gilson | Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty, US$70M View properties in Hillsborough, California Sonoma, California default " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001.jpg" alt="Aerial view of a rural estate featuring a lake, rolling hills, wooded landscapes, agricultural buildings, and distant mountain views under a pastel sky." class="wp-image-348175" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001.jpg 5272w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001-300x225.jpg 300w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001-1024x767.jpg 1024w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001-768x575.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001-1536x1150.jpg 1536w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001-2048x1534.jpg 2048w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001-1200x899.jpg 1200w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001-800x600.jpg 800w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001-600x450.jpg 600w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001-400x300.jpg 400w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/photo_online_001-200x150.jpg 200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 5272px) 100vw, 5272px" Michael Dreyfus, Kristie Eddy |Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty, US$38.5M View properties in Sonoma, California Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands default " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/LDV_46-1024x683.jpg" alt="Oceanfront luxury estate with multiple pavilions, palm-lined grounds, and a central swimming pool overlooking a white-sand beach and turquoise water." class="wp-image-348177" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/LDV_46-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/LDV_46-300x200.jpg 300w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/LDV_46-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/LDV_46-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/LDV_46-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/LDV_46.jpg 1800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" Nina Siegenthaler | Turks and Cacios Sotheby’s International Realty, US$27M View properties in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Toronto, Canada Jane Zhang | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, CAD22M View properties in Toronto, Canada Southampton, New York Harald Grant, Bruce Grant | Sotheby’s International Realty – Southampton Brokerage, US$17M View properties in Southampton, New York
Immaculate design is underpinning the revival of statement rooms that spark curiosity and human connection, discovers Elizabeth Fazzare Paris, France | Propriétés Parisiennes Sotheby’s International Realty We often associate a digital detox or screen-free sojourn with getting out into nature. But as the desire to unplug increases for many, attention has turned to luxury homes with interior spaces dedicated to company and conversation, offering intellectual and cultural sustenance, without online distraction. Rooted in the European art and literary traditions which reached their zenith in the 18th century, the contemporary salon is a room in which to meet, discuss and debate, as much as to read, relax or listen to music. Devoid of televisions and other tech, they instead display books, artworks, and personal collections. “A salon should be people-facing rather than screen-facing. That is perhaps its biggest distinction from the conventional contemporary living room,” explains designer Kelly Zerbini, principal designer and partner at Dunnam Zerbini Design in New York, who recently designed a salon-style living room in a Greenwich Village townhouse. The Kelly Zerbini-designed salon in a Greenwich Village townhouse engages the senses. Photograph: Joshua McHugh. Styling: Anthony Amiano “Instead of organizing everything around one dominant focal point, the floor plan should encourage conversation, movement, and discovery,” she says. With its impeccable design and art collection, the salon of a 19th-century Paris home does just that. In pursuit of the same goal, Zerbini’s salons feature multiple seating areas, artworks large and small (to both capture attention from across the room and encourage closer appreciation), and “verticality.” The latter can be achieved using floor-to-ceiling shelving, art walls, objets d’art, and “layers of things that have meaning to the people who live there,” she says. “The goal is to create a room that gives people permission to wander, look, sit, move, and engage with one another.” In her Greenwich Village design, a history-scale artwork by Roméo Mivekannin hangs over one seating area, where the sofa is flanked by storage that displays smaller art and treasures. New York | Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage A fireplace with a mirror sculpted by Scott Strickstein centers another zone with a chaise longue, armchairs, and a brash, colorful cabinet by designers Fernando and Humberto Campana. Despite the room’s 18-foot-tall ceilings, this mix of furnishing scales engages the senses—and creates a sense of comfort. Across Manhattan on Sutton Place, a penthouse offers a minimalist take on the trend: a conversation-starter statement sofa creates a 360-degree viewing experience of a blue-chip art collection and the skyline beyond. Bora Bora, French Polynesia | French Polynesia Sotheby’s International Realty Meanwhile in the salon of a villa in Bora Bora, French Polynesia, talking points include a spectacular aquarium and a generous, subtly lit library wall. Of course, unlike the walled-off floor plans of the past, many contemporary homes embrace more flowing living arrangements. “Today’s ‘salons’ tend to be more integrated with the rest of the home,” says Don Johnston, a real estate agent at The Montecito Group of Sotheby’s International Realty. “It’s the same spirit of the European salon, just reinterpreted to feel more relaxed and livable for every day.” Montecito, California | Sotheby’s International Realty – Montecito – 1290 Coast Village Road Brokerage Yet even within an open floor plan, a salon can feel intimate with careful placement of furniture, inward-facing seating arrangements, and a detail-oriented design scheme. At this stately ocean-fronting residence in Montecito, California, the open-plan salon’s two seating areas encourage discussion, while dramatic artworks, sculptures, and a central fireplace provide interest and focus. A darker palette, booklined walls and a collection of curiosities suffuse the salon of this high-end home in New South Wales, Australia with a contrasting—but, thanks to ample seating, no less congenial—mood. New South Wales, Australia | Drew Lindsay Sotheby’s International Realty “Design is a pendulum, and I think the renewed interest in salons is partly a reaction against the vast, overscaled spaces that have dominated contemporary residential architecture,” says Zerbini. “There is something very appealing now about intimacy, separation, and not revealing everything at once.” And there is something very human, as well. Here’s what lies behind the rise of home libraries in a screen-saturated era
Across the street from its namesake park, this singular residence catches the eye with its weblike façade of steel and floor-to-ceiling glass. Beyond lies 5,580 square feet of airy, open contemporary living space designed to showcase art. “Home is where the heart is,” or so the saying goes. That well-worn idiom dates back to at least the early 1800s, but this truly distinctive residence in San Francisco—fondly referred to as the Gallery House—may well revise the turn of phrase for a more modern, aesthetically oriented world: “Home is where the art is.” San Francisco, California| Joseph Lucier, Stacey Caen , Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage After acquiring the property in the city’s picturesque South Park neighborhood, the current owners set about a roughly four-year process of creating—along with Luke Ogrydziak and Zoë Prillinger of OPA Architects—a one-of-a-kind three-level home where form and function came to fruition simultaneously. Recognized as a landmark by fellow San Franciscans and Pokémon Go aficionados, it displays an eye-catching weblike façade of Cor-Ten steel and floor-to-ceiling glass on the top two levels, both front and back. Beyond lies 5,580 square feet of airy, open contemporary living space designed to showcase art and pull natural light into nearly every corner. The owners’ art collection informed the design, with streamlined white walls and limited ornamentation creating an ideal neutral backdrop for its display. Industrial elements—steel beams and corrugated metal ceilings—are balanced by the organic softness of the neighborhood’s leafy trees, views of which serve as dynamic de facto wall treatments. As the light changes with the hours and seasons, it creates new lines, shadows, and perspectives, making the components of stylish modern living all the more compelling. On the ground floor, an inviting space with a kitchenette and a powder bath was conceived as a gallery, photography studio, and versatile entertaining space. Above is a living room with a wine cellar and nearly an entire wall lined with bookshelves; it flows effortlessly into a sleek kitchen that combines minimalist hues of black, white, and stainless-steel and a dining area giving way to a sun-washed terrace with a grilling area and raised landscaped beds. An office or family room accompanies the skylit bedrooms and baths on the uppermost level. A convenient elevator links all of the floors as well as the enviable rooftop garden and deck—a flourishing private aerie hovering amid the treetops. Just across the street is the tree-strewn greenery and breezy shade of historic South Park, a hidden gem dating to the 1850s. Proximity to this emerald oasis—as well as restaurants, galleries, shops, technology and venture capital firms, and cultural destinations—makes this residence one of the city’s most coveted addresses and a work of art in its own right. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Jackson, Wyoming | Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty From alpine landscapes and storied English countryside estates to architectural landmarks in San Francisco and oceanfront retreats in Thailand, this month’s collection of new and notable listings celebrates the many ways exceptional homes connect design, setting, and lifestyle. Whether situated amid the natural beauty of Jackson Hole, overlooking the waters of Lake Garda, or redefining luxury in some of the world’s most prestigious neighborhoods, each residence offers a distinctive perspective on elevated living. Hamilton Island, Australia Hamilton Island, Australia | Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty Set above the turquoise waters of the Whitsundays, Azuris offers a striking expression of contemporary Australian luxury. Designed to capture panoramic ocean views, the residence blends expansive glazing, open-concept living spaces, and resort-style outdoor amenities that seamlessly connect to its tropical surroundings. Located on Hamilton Island, one of Australia’s premier luxury destinations, the property combines privacy, waterfront living, and easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, making it an exceptional island retreat. Surrey, England Surrey, England | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty Set amid the rolling landscapes of Surrey, this remarkable manor estate exemplifies the enduring appeal of English country living. Surrounded by expansive private grounds and mature woodlands, the residence combines historic character with the scale and sophistication expected of a modern luxury estate. Offering both privacy and proximity to London, the property represents a rare opportunity to own a distinguished home in one of England’s most desirable residential regions. Atlanta, Georgia Atlanta, Georgia| Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty In Atlanta’s prestigious Tuxedo Park neighborhood, this fully reimagined estate sets a new benchmark for luxury living in the Southeast. Encompassing more than 18,000 square feet on two gated acres, the residence features an extraordinary collection of amenities, including cascading infinity pools, a private wellness center, bowling alley, golf simulator, and expansive entertaining spaces. Combining architectural grandeur with resort-inspired living, the property stands among the most significant luxury homes currently offered in Atlanta. Gargnano, Italy Gargnano, Italy | Italy Sotheby’s International Realty Overlooking the sparkling waters of Lake Garda, this historic Italian villa captures the timeless elegance for which the region is renowned. Classic architecture, manicured gardens, and commanding lake views create an atmosphere of refinement and tranquility. Situated in the picturesque town of Gargnano, the residence offers an exceptional opportunity to enjoy one of Europe’s most coveted waterfront destinations while embracing the rich cultural heritage of northern Italy. Phuket, Thailand Phuket, Thailand | List Sotheby’s International Realty, Thailand Positioned along Phuket’s tranquil eastern coastline, Anchali Villa offers a rare combination of oceanfront privacy and contemporary luxury. The fully furnished residence features expansive interiors, dramatic indoor-outdoor living spaces, and panoramic views of the surrounding tropical landscape. Located in Pa Klok near prestigious marinas and Phang Nga Bay, the estate provides a serene retreat while remaining connected to the island’s world-class amenities, making it ideal as either a primary residence or luxury vacation home. San Francisco, California San Francisco, California | Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage Known as The Gallery House, this architecturally significant residence occupies a coveted position overlooking San Francisco’s historic South Park. Conceived as both a home and a showcase for art, the property features dramatic volumes, expansive walls for display, and abundant natural light that transforms throughout the day. Located in one of the city’s most distinctive neighborhoods, the residence offers a rare blend of architectural pedigree, urban sophistication, and proximity to San Francisco’s leading cultural, culinary, and technology hubs. Jackson, Wyoming Jackson, Wyoming | Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty Against the dramatic backdrop of the Teton Range, this contemporary Jackson Hole residence embodies the best of luxury mountain living. Thoughtfully designed to embrace its surroundings, the home features warm natural materials, expansive windows, and inviting outdoor spaces that celebrate Wyoming’s extraordinary scenery. Located in one of the most sought-after luxury real estate markets in the American West, the property provides unparalleled access to world-class skiing, outdoor recreation, and the natural beauty of Jackson Hole. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Remote landscapes provide stunning backdrops and design inspiration for these boutique getaways, writes Kerry Walker Ytri, on the north Norwegian island of Husøy, makes the most of its elemental setting. Photo: Einar Aslaksen, courtesy of Banyan Group As the world takes a deep breath after the buzz of Northern Hemisphere summer, it’s all too easy to heed the immediate call of work. But arguably now is the season to turn away from routine and slip back into nature instead, at one of a raft of newly opened boutique retreats. From a luxury eco-lodge in the Tanzanian savannah to an intrepid getaway in the glacier-frosted peaks of Patagonia and a remote Arctic refuge in northern Norway, each of these architecturally striking escapes immerses you in the wild, taking its design cues from the great outdoors. Explora El Calafate, Patagonia Explora El Calafate nestles in the rugged Patagonian steppe. Photo: Courtesy of Banyan Group Opening in December 2026, Explora El Calafate promises to drop you deep into the remote wilderness of Patagonia, with a dash of modern-day gaucho style. This is a place to absorb the silence of the steppe, the views of the Pampas plains, the towering Andes and the distant gleam of Perito Moreno glacier. The quietly luxurious 20-room lodge—bearing the hallmark of Chilean architect José Cruz Ovalle—melts into the epic surrounds of a 173,000-acre estancia (estate). The design is light and airy, with skylit rooms and suites fitted out in pale lenga wood from nearby forests, all with views of piercing blue skies, sunsets and starry nights. The retreat has an intrepid touch, with pros on hand to help you tailor cross-border adventures into this starkly beautiful region of ice, rock and wind—be it crossing the turquoise Lago Argentino, trotting off on horseback into mountains where condors soar or trekking into petrified forests. After a day braving the elements, warm up in the panoramic sauna and hot tubs or book a massage with warm river stones and local botanicals such as eucalyptus, lavender and chamomile. The peak-facing dining room nods to the Argentine asado tradition, where fish, meats and vegetables are expertly grilled over an open fire. Ytri, Norway Natural materials elevate the tranquility of Ytri’s light-filled rooms. Photo: Einar Aslaksen Like a stepping stone to a wilder world, the Norwegian island of Husøy is elemental. Surrounded by ragged peaks that punch above the booming ocean, waves bash rocky shores and white-tailed eagles wheel in expansive skies. The light, too, is entrancing, with summer’s midnight sun giving way to the hypnotic Northern Lights. Slotting neatly into the picture is Ytri, a Relais & Châteaux retreat that opened in April 2026. Arriving here is like rewinding to a slower, pre-digital age—one in tune with nature’s rhythms, tides and the stories of an island where folk have fished in icy waters for 9,000 years. Oslo-based architects Vardehaugen took inspiration from traditional fishing houses to create this 38-room sanctuary. Interiors by design studio Bonaparte capture the soul of the island with ash wood, Norwegian wool, linen and terrazzo adding depth and warmth. It’s a comforting design that nods to the need for hygge in an extreme climate. Hike to hidden coves, kayak between islands or glide across ink-blue waters by stand-up paddleboard. After a day on or by the water, return to the crackle of a wood-fired sauna and dinner at Alma restaurant, where menus sing of the seasons. Whatever has been fished, foraged or picked that day lands on a very elegant plate. Ubuyu, Tanzania Handcrafted villas at Ubuyu take their circular form from traditional Maasai huts. Photo: Courtesy of Banyan Group An elephant silhouetted among the baobab trees in a rose-gold sunset. Floating above the savannah in a hot-air balloon at daybreak. Watching a pride of lions in breathless wonder. All snapshots from a stay at Ubuyu, an exclusive eco retreat that opened in May 2026 in the heart of the vast Ruaha National Park in southern Tanzania. Luxury at this off-grid lodge looks to the wild—and there is plenty of that. Italian architects Fabric have grounded their vision in the local: six villas handcrafted from natural materials reflect both the curves of the Great Ruaha River and the low-impact design of Maasai bomas (traditional huts). Flattering lantern light, plunge pools and decking frame cinematic views of the wildlife and glittering night skies. An “escape host” is on hand to arrange private safaris, balloon flights or wild dining. Return to base for a pamper at the Maji spa, an open-air pavilion perched above the river, or botanical-infused cocktails at the Mganga (Swahili for “medicine man”) bar, either a fitting prelude for Ubuyu’s zero-waste, plant-forward cooking. These epic rural homes around the globe bring ‘Wuthering Heights”-style drama
As travelers begin planning seasonal getaways, new research identifies the leading vacation home markets in the U.S. and the premium price tags these spots command. In Realtor.com’s “June 2026 Luxury Housing Report,” published July 15, 2026, Nantucket, Massachusetts has the nation’s highest share of vacation properties. Second homes account for more than half (55%) of housing on the elite New England island, with the 10% most expensive listings there starting at US$14,117,250, according to the research. Coastal, beach and mountain retreat destinations feature heavily in markets with high concentrations of vacation homes, Realtor.com’s data shows. Holiday homes make up 54.4% of residences in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts, another sought-after island destination, where top flight listings start at US$8,235,000. Breckenridge, in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, stands out in the Realtor.com data for its 46% share of vacation homes, while Heber, Utah, is the third most expensive U.S. vacation home market, with luxury listings starting at US$6,038,000. “There is a level of luxury where the destination is intentional,” says Anthony Smith, senior economist at Realtor.com, places where “scenery carries more value than proximity to a major economic engine.” Cover Property: Sotheby’s International Realty – East Hampton Brokerage
With its quintessential wood shingles, pitched rooflines, white-trimmed windows, inviting modern interiors, and generous outdoor living spaces, this five-bedroom Amagansett residence stands as a shining example of the enduring allure of the Hamptons. Near what is known today as Indian Wells Beach, the Montaukett people found a spot they named the “place of good water”; their word for that site lent itself to the moniker Amagansett, an enchanting hamlet that is now a desirable destination with a relaxed atmosphere, historic homes and landmarks, and captivating beaches. At the end of a long secluded drive near the town’s idyllic Fresh Pond Park and Nepeague Bay, this five-bedroom retreat epitomizes the style and serenity of the Hamptons. Amagansett, New York| Eileen Mullen, Michael Memon, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Hampton Brokerage With its quintessential façade of classic wood shingles, pitched rooflines, white-trimmed windows, and generous outdoor living spaces, the residence stands as a shining example of enduring Hamptons style. The interiors, however, exhibit sleek lines, minimal flourishes, a subdued organic palette, and an aura of quiet luxury that make it unquestionably modern. In its delightful collection of inviting living spaces, glorious sunlight floods in through plentiful windows, clerestories, and French doors. Cooks of all skill levels will appreciate the kitchen’s stone-wrapped island with counter seating, streamlined cabinetry, and top-tier stainless-steel appliances. From its location on the lowest level, a scullery or catering kitchen facilitates festive gatherings or allows for easy snacking in the nearby media and game room. Chief among the home’s five generous bedrooms is a primary suite serenely secluded on the upper level, where it enjoys views of the treetops. On the main level is an auxiliary suite, equally stylish and offering a similar sense of sophisticated comfort. Each of the seven chic baths has a distinctive palette and aesthetic that is decidedly contemporary. Fitness and self-care are effortless thanks to a dedicated gym and an indoor sauna. The interiors open to thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces, including areas for lounging, celebrating, grilling, or dining beneath colorful vining wisteria. A refreshing gunite swimming pool is surrounded by handsome bluestone and emerald lawn; not far off is an enviable open-air shower. On any evening and fall’s cooler days, built-in seating encourages gathering around the warming fire pit. Enveloping it all are green groves of mature trees and other lush, flourishing flora, creating a natural curtain of privacy and a sense of being at one with the surroundings. Nevertheless, the shops and restaurants of Amagansett’s historic Main Street, charming farm stands, and the undeniably “good water” of the area’s alluring ocean and bay beaches are all moments away. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Threaded with history and human endeavor, the 11th-century masterpiece is the antithesis of AI, writes Elizabeth Metcalfe The Bayeux Tapestry has been loaned to the British Museum, London, from Normandy, France. Photograph: © La Fabrique de Patrimoines en Normandie / Antoine Cazin Few international exhibitions have caused quite such a frenzy as France’s historic loan of the Bayeux Tapestry to London this fall. Long before its September opening at the British Museum, nine-hour online queues for tickets resulted in the museum’s highest ever single day of sales. Meanwhile, the 224-foot (68-meter) piece arrived in July from its Normandy home in the dead of night in a specially adapted truck under police escort. Why has this 11th-century artifact—offically not even a tapestry but a piece of crewelwork embroidery made from dyed wool and linen by anonymous hands—so enraptured the world? “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see it back in the country where it was likely made,” says Millie Horton-Insch, art historian and project curator of The Bayeux Tapestry exhibition, which marks the first time in nearly 1,000 years that the work has left France. “It’s an extraordinary survival from a period when hardly any textiles still exist, let alone something the length of five double-decker buses.” Antique tapestry in a Marta de La Rica-designed interior in Sepúlveda, Spain. Photograph: Pablo Zamora For centuries, woven wallcoverings, embroidery and crewelwork have been prized for bringing depth and tactility to interiors. “Historically they did so much for a room,” says Marta de La Rica. The interior designer often makes tapestries and embroidered textiles a central part of her schemes, including at her own home in Madrid, where an 18th-century wall hanging depicts the Queen of Sheba. “They brought color and warmth, but could also tell stories, communicate identity and completely transform the atmosphere of a space,” she says. As designers increasingly bring antique textile pieces into contemporary homes, the qualities embodied by the Bayeux Tapestry—storytelling, craftsmanship and human ingenuity—feel particularly resonant. Chronicling the events that led up to the Battle of Hastings in 1066 and the Norman conquest of England, this historic piece certainly spins an absorbing yarn. Detail from the Bayeux Tapestry. Photograph: © La Fabrique de Patrimoines en Normandie / Antoine Cazin “There is death, violence, destruction and conquest, but also real moments of lightness and insights into daily life: how food was prepared and how people reacted to astronomical events such as Halley’s Comet,” explains Horton-Insch. “Communicated through a visual medium, it has this emotional immediacy that captivates people of every age,” she adds, likening the tapestry to someone “waving at you from the 11th century.” The figures may look cartoonish to modern eyes, but their expressions are relatable in their humanity. Then there’s the sheer feat of its creation. The Bayeux Tapestry is made from four main simple stitch styles, including stem stitch for outlines and couching stitch for filled areas. But exactly how many hands were involved remains a mystery. The colors of contemporary crewelwork by Sarah King. Photography: Courtesy of Sarah King “Given the consistency of the neat, even stitching and color choices across such a huge piece, it must have been created by a group, working and communicating together,” suggests textile consultant Sarah King. Although there are only 10 colors of thread, they are deployed in a surprisingly modern and creative way. “A horse might be red or yellow in the foreground, but then blue in the background,” says Horton-Insch. “Picasso, eat your heart out!” As Marg Dier, senior embroiderer at the Royal School of Needlework, comments: “This isn’t some cutesy embroidery project—it is massive and monumental.” Horton-Insch agrees. The linen would have to be made, the sheep raised for the wool, the natural dyes created from plants, all before any stitching took place, she explains. “Scholars estimate for every hour of embroidery work, you would have to spin wool for four to six hours. Times that across almost 70 meters and it’s mind-boggling.” A tapestry sourced by interior designer and antiques expert Max Rollitt. Photograph: Ed Rollitt That sense of the human hand is what makes antique tapestries and embroideries such a compelling medium for high-end interiors—especially when so much of what surrounds us is digitally produced. “They create this abstract, textural, tactile, large-scale impact in a room,” explains interior designer James Mackie, who missed out on the first round of tickets to view the Bayeux Tapestry, but “will be seriously getting on the case” in October when the next tickets will be released. Mackie recently hung a 17th-century Flemish verdure tapestry—“all amazing flora and fauna, terrifying fish and gorgeous little boats”—in his Cotswolds cottage. There, it enlivens the corner of a guest room. Historically, such pieces also served the very practical purpose of insulating cavernous, drafty rooms and absorbing noise. Max Rollitt’s Yavington Barn showroom in Hampshire, England. Photograph: Ed Rollitt “Tapestries bring stories with them not just in their narratives, but in their journeys across continents and the many hands they have passed through,” explains interior designer, antiques dealer and furniture maker Max Rollitt, who often uses 17th- and 18th-century Aubusson tapestries in projects. “These stories seem more valuable now than ever.” For interior designer Joanna Plant, who hung a 19th-century English crewelwork panel above her London staircase, tapestry and embroideries occupy a unique position: “They carry history without feeling precious. Though often decades or centuries old, they sit happily with something brand new and somehow make both look better,” she says. Crewelwork by Sarah King in a Wisconsin home designed by Emma Burns of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler. Photograph: Simon Brown Antique wallcoverings can work particularly well in contemporary settings, suggests Mackie, bringing “warmth and tactility” to modern white-box-style interiors. And while loom-made Aubusson tapestries have long been popular, crewelwork is attracting renewed attention, which the already blockbusting Bayeux Tapestry exhibition will only amplify. “The combination of hand stitching and wool thread on linen fabric has such a natural, beautiful, calming effect on an interior,” explains King, a crewelwork specialist who recreated some 17th-century fragments for the British businesswoman Carole Bamford to use around a four-poster bed. “Crewelwork is slow, soft and human—it couldn’t be further from AI.” The Bayeux Tapestry is at the British Museum, London from Sept. 10, 2026 to July 11, 2027 Decorating with tapestries? Explore further interior design inspiration here
Visitors to the International Film Festival will discover liveable neighborhoods as varied as their inhabitants, says Julia Viele Hoggs Hollow, Toronto | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada If you’re seeking a city that blends culture, culinary excellence and luxury, Toronto easily comes to mind. The Canadian metropolis is among the most multicultural in the world, with more than 140 languages spoken—and the means to satisfy just about any food craving. That same diversity is reflected in its vibrant cultural life and contrasting neighborhoods. Situated on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, Toronto produces global talent across music, cinema and sports—and hosts it too. September sees the return of both the Toronto Biennial of Art and the Toronto International Film Festival, now in its 51st year. The streets will buzz with premieres, screenings and celebrity stays at the Four Seasons and Hazelton Hotel in the glitzy Yorkville neighborhood. A meeting point between downtown and midtown, Yorkville offers high-end boutiques, Victorian homes, European flair and walkability—whether to an ice-cream parlor, cafe or fashionable restaurant, such as the “see and be seen” Italian eatery Sotto Sotto. Yorkville, Toronto | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada Tucked away on Gloucester Lane, a side street close to the action, is a historic building that was once home to the creative space of Canadian filmmaker Norman Jewison. Today, its fifth-floor penthouse spans almost 10,000 square feet, with exposed brick, large windows and natural light. “If you ask 1,000 people in Toronto where Gloucester is, maybe five people could tell you,” says Sotheby’s International Realtor Paul Maranger of the location. “It’s the perfect amount of seclusion.” With more than two decades of experience in the city’s luxury real estate market, Maranger knows the city well. “Toronto is a place of distinctive neighborhoods, each with their own personality and amenities which attract people to that specific neighborhood,” he says. Rosedale, Toronto | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada A short walk from Yorkville is Somerville. Pretty and polished, the area thrums with small grocers, cafes, bars and independent shops, including Coco Market for wellness essentials and Le Tigre for drinks. The next neighborhood along is Rosedale. “People who are buying here do so for the area; it’s a very comfortable and beautiful environment,” says Gianpiero Pugliese, founder of Audax, an architecture, design and building firm based in Toronto. Rosedale has two Heritage Conservation Districts to ensure homes are renovated sympathetically. One Edwardian villa is a prime example: a multiyear transformation left it with a modern, sleek and contemporary feel—and its rich architectural history intact. Lawrence Park, Toronto | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada In contrast are the grand modern mansions of the Bridle Path, otherwise known as “Millionaire’s Row”, perhaps Toronto’s most exclusive neighborhood. “These are estates,” says Pugliese, “with all the amenities you want in a house.” One such is the Ravine Mansion, with 25-foot ceilings, a library and staff quarters. Another affluent neighborhood is Lawrence Park, where vast lots are the norm. Sitting on a particularly wide one is the architecturally striking Bézier Curve House, so named after the mathematical curve of its zinc-shingled roof, which tops an L-shaped structure wrapping around a lush landscaped courtyard and pool. “Lawrence Park is extremely pretty and very leafy,” says Maranger, who adds that the area’s access to good schools is a key draw. Passing traffic is mostly local, so you’ll always see kids out riding their bikes or playing on the grass. Hoggs Hollow, Toronto, Canada | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada To the north lies Hoggs Hollow, where the walnut, teak and glass of the minimalist, midcentury-inspired Valley House, designed by Superkül, strike yet another architectural note. “I think that’s the essence of Toronto,” remarks Maranger. “There is so much personality and [so many] different vibes. Ultimately, I think that’s what makes it approachable for a buyer because, depending on your needs and desires, you have options.” Explore Helsinki: a design-savvy city between land and sea
A team of experts—from architect to landscaper—considered every detail of this remarkable Southern California estate, creating a true turnkey home meticulously curated to align with the rhythm of life. The Covenant—the original prestigious heart of Rancho Santa Fe—was so named for the protections its founders established to ensure that the natural landscape and architectural aesthetics of the area were maintained. Given its dedication to classic style, abundant natural light, refreshing openness, cool breezes, and a life lived outdoors, this magnificent estate—built in 2024 on 3.66 hillside acres—certainly upholds those aims. Rancho Santa Fe, California| Ernie Carswell & Associates, Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage With its august limestone façade, hand-troweled finishes, and reclaimed French terra-cotta roof tiles, the home could easily be mistaken for an enduring manor in the European countryside. But looks can be deceiving, as the adage goes, and the interiors resolutely exemplify relaxed, luxurious modernity. From the start, the team of designer Barbara Lee Grigsby, architect Josh Kordasiewicz of Axon, and the experts at Neri Landscape Architecture considered every detail of the estate, from structure and building materials—including some irreplaceable antique and reclaimed elements—to furnishings, fixtures, artwork, accessories, and plantings. The result is a singularly rare offering—a true turnkey home meticulously curated to align with the rhythm of life. The vast main residence is an inspiring collection of generously scaled rooms that combine dramatic volume and a warm, welcoming ambience. The heart of the home is the light-filled great room, which features a soaring ceiling buttressed by antique wood beams, wide-plank French oak floors, a fireplace crafted from reclaimed brick, and steel-framed windows and doors that create an effortless connection with the outdoors. The Christopher Peacock kitchen and family room are ideal for quiet, casual moments. Surfaces of marble, quartzite, and limestone meet alluring wood cabinets hand-brushed with European oil paint, creating an eye-catching range of hues and textures. Cooks of all skill levels will appreciate superior-caliber appliances from La Cornue, Sub-Zero, and Miele; a bar; and a convenient, discreet butler’s pantry. Secluded in its own wing, the owner’s suite is oriented to capture views of rolling hills and wide-open sky. A custom fireplace, an array of built-ins, automated amenities—including a hidden television—and a lavish bath with heated floors, polished-nickel fixtures, towel warmers, and both a shower and a soaking tub create a sense of luxury and indulgence. The dual boutique-caliber dressing rooms boast exceptional cabinetry, custom hanging systems, and other thoughtfully integrated storage. The three guest bedrooms are equally stylish and well appointed, each enjoying an en suite bath, a walk-in closet, and access to a terrace or garden. Accommodating long-term visitors or multigenerational living, the freestanding guesthouse benefits from its own kitchen, living room, fireplace, bedroom, bath, and wraparound porch with swings. In such a remarkable, lovingly maintained place, outdoor living is de rigueur. The centerpiece of that open-air lifestyle is a swimming pool and spa whose infinity edge creates a serene waterfall. Enveloping it are a patio with a custom fire pit; an alfresco living area and kitchen with a fireplace, a grill, a rotisserie, and stainless-steel cabinetry; and thoughtful landscaping that includes meadows threaded with stone paths, olive trees, and handsome split-rail fencing. This is turnkey living in its truest form. Even everyday essentials—glassware, dishware, cookware, and linens—have been painstakingly chosen in keeping with the aesthetic. Whole-house water filtration, a central vacuum system, fire suppression, multizone heating and air conditioning, solar infrastructure, integrated audio, motorized shades, and Lutron automated lighting ensure that the details of everyday life unfold quietly, reliably, and with enviable ease. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Our monthly series asks: How do you bring color into luxury design? Burgundy adds warmth and glamour, writes Jill Krasny Knightsbridge, London | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty Some homes make a lasting impression while others quickly fade from the mind. Almost always, the design and color scheme is a factor. Navy is elegant, versatile and timeless, while terracotta, a hue that’s been used domestically for centuries, suits traditional and contemporary spaces alike. Burgundy—which our series on color in luxury design turns to next—brings comforting warmth to any interior while injecting a little old-fashioned “decadence and glamour,” says Patrick O’Donnell, an interior designer and brand ambassador for British paint maker Farrow & Ball. The color reigned supreme in the Victorian era, says O’Donnell, when “dark, sumptuous and textural interiors” were in vogue, along with layered damasks, busy prints and plush velvets. Lenox Hill, New York | Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage Burgundy was also used in ancient times, he notes, as evidenced by the Roman city of Pompeii in Italy, where many frescoes feature the color. Meanwhile, the interior walls of the Pantheon in the grounds of Stourhead, a grand estate in Wiltshire, England, show traces of purple-red porphyry stone. It was inspired by the original Pantheon in Rome. In recent years, shades of both burgundy and maroon (with its brown rather than purple undertone) have surged in popularity, says O’Donnell, as homeowners grow tired of muted palettes and opt for bolder, more expressive colors. Burgundy enlivens any neutral room, he says, and especially pops in “small or poorly lit spaces,” where “its red overtones add a cozy, inviting vibe.” Knightsbridge, London | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty A newly refurbished apartment in London’s Knightsbridge proves O’Donnell right. “It creates something rather masculine and cocooning,” he says of the deep burgundy bedroom walls paired with floor-skimming charcoal curtains. The L-shaped galley kitchen, with European-style cabinetry in a vampy red, feels similarly off-kilter—in the best way possible—thanks to its wavy glass window set over the sink. In the traditional living room of a Lenox Hill townhouse in New York, the richly patterned carpet highlights the wood-paneled walls and chintz-covered seats without detracting from the historic art. The grand foyer’s light burgundy wallpaper, O’Donnell notes, “serves as a clever foil for the extensive collection of black-and-white photography.” Additionally, it draws out the sweeping spiral staircase and checkerboard tile floor. Bridgehampton, New York | Sotheby’s International Realty – Bridgehampton Brokerage In a striking home in Bridgehampton, New York, burgundy walls provide a bold backdrop for art and collectables in a vestibule space connecting the main reception area and a paved terrace. The color pairs well with both the adjacent white and greenery outside, while an unusual blue and gold starred ceiling provides a pleasing contrast. This makes sense, says O’Donnell. Strong colors such as burgundy aren’t suited to light-filled spaces; they tend to work best in smaller areas as accents. And this applies to furniture and soft furnishings as much as a wall, which explains the popularity of burgundy velvet sofas and rugs. Germantown, New York | Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty Meanwhile, a modern farmhouse in New York’s Hudson Valley offers a subtler take on decorating with burgundy. “The dresser gently draws the eye to the objects on display,” says O’Donnell, noting the tonal backing. “Even the color has been ‘washed’ to create a sense of softness,” he adds. Also helpful: the eclectic-patterned rug spread across the wide plank floors. Further burgundy rugs line the living room and an impeccably decorated bedroom that complements the owner’s eclectic mix of art, curios and wooden four-poster bed. Explore our Color Chart series, from bold red, joyful pink, zingy orange, versatile turquoise and uplifting yellow to natural lilac, historic terracotta, classic green, calming white and sophisticated navy
Spanning some 4,000 square feet on two levels, this regal four-bedroom penthouse towers above Los Angeles at one of the most coveted addresses along Wilshire Boulevard. It exudes an elegant classicism that belies a locale perhaps better known for sun, sand, and surf. One of the most renowned thoroughfares in the United States—if not the world—Wilshire Boulevard traces its history to the days before the conquistadores, when it served as one of the central pathways traveled by the region’s indigenous Tongva people. Today the boulevard is strewn with important denizens, from telecommunications companies, museums, and movie studios to historic hotels and luxurious condominium residences, which abound particularly along the stretch known familiarly as Millionaire’s Mile. Los Angeles, California| Lori Berris, Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage Spanning some 4,000 square feet over two levels, this regal penthouse towers above the city at one of the most coveted addresses along that storied promenade. It exudes a classicism that belies a locale perhaps better known for sun, sand, and surf. Touches of Old World panache can be found in finely honed custom millwork, crown moldings, wide-plank walnut floors, panelled walls, sculpted marble, light fixtures accented with crystal and glass, stately stone tile, and rich, deep hues and superior craftsmanship that exemplify enduring luxury. Introduced by a foyer with august limestone flooring and a cinematic staircase, this “villa in the sky” boasts a living room with a fireplace, a sweeping iconic vista, and two enviable balconies; an open dining area where the views continue; and a chef’s kitchen with marble countertops, custom cabinetry, an oversized island, a breakfast bar, a six-burner dual-oven Wolf range, two Sub-Zero refrigerators, temperature-controlled wine storage, and a dedicated breakfast area. Chief among the home’s four bedrooms is a primary suite whose lavish marble bath offers a spa-caliber steam shower and a custom soaking tub. The boutique-worthy walk-in closet and dressing room features a built-in safe. Each bedroom and bath—including a versatile upper-level studio with a kitchenette—has been finished with a distinctive design motif and palette. Traditional aesthetics notwithstanding, the residence is undeniably well suited for modern living, with contemporary comforts and conveniences that include a Crestron home automation system, custom window treatments, and the building’s abundant amenities, which range from round-the-clock security, a refreshing swimming pool and spa, a fitness center, communal gathering spaces indoors and out, a caterer’s kitchen, and valet parking via the grand welcoming porte cochère. The attractions for which the region is renowned are mere moments away, from the campus of UCLA and Century City to the boutiques and designer flagships of Rodeo Drive. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
From a £30M sale in London, England, to a US$24M in Seagrove Beach, Florida, here are significant sales represented by the Sotheby’s International Realty global network in July. London, England Sarah Peck | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, £30M View properties in London, England Seagrove Beach, Florida Lauren Boger|Scenic Sotheby’s International Realty, US$24M View properties in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida North Hampton, New Hampshire Tony Jalbert, Dana Mitchell| Tate & Foss Sotheby’s International Realty, US$24M View properties in North Hampton, New Hampshire Carlsbad, California K. Ann Brizolis | Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty, US$13.75M View properties in Carlsbad, California Mellons Bay, New Zealand Greg Dennerly | New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty, NZD7.38M View properties in Auckland, New Zealand
A dedicated drinking den is a luxury must-have. From a ‘vampire speakeasy’ to an incognito cabinet, the best designs maintain an element of surprise, finds Elizabeth Fazzare A cocktail bar by Chad Dorsey Design with custom branding, menu and drinks, all in the comfort of a private Dallas residence. Photo: Stephen Karlisch Sometimes staying in really is just as fun as going out. For proof, look no further than the rising popularity of the home bar, now one of the most sought-after elements of a high-end residence. Homeowners are dedicating entire rooms, feature niches and hidden-in-plain-sight cabinets to this hosting staple. However, rather than taking cues from the sleek luxury of their counterparts in hospitality projects, home-bar designs are going full-out, putting personality on display alongside an owner’s libations of choice. Today, a home bar is just as much “about having people come over to experience it as to look at it,” says interior designer Devin Hines, the founder of Los Angeles and New York City studio Hines Collective. Homeowners “want it to be a conversation starter and very much a visual surprise,” he says. In a recent loft project in New York City’s upmarket Tribeca neighborhood, Hines carved a gilded apse into the red lacquered media room and set a wet bar within it. Its sink is outfitted with a swan-shaped faucet, while a custom metallic plaster finish looks like aged, hammered metal, dramatically juxtaposing the deep oxblood walls and ceiling. Financial District NYC Interior Design: Devin Hines " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Hines-Collective_Tribeca_Photographer-Joshua-McHugh-683x1024.jpg" alt="gold wet bar in Tribeca by Hines Collective with statement coffee table and grey couch in the foreground" class="wp-image-347942" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Hines-Collective_Tribeca_Photographer-Joshua-McHugh-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Hines-Collective_Tribeca_Photographer-Joshua-McHugh-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Hines-Collective_Tribeca_Photographer-Joshua-McHugh-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Hines-Collective_Tribeca_Photographer-Joshua-McHugh-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Hines-Collective_Tribeca_Photographer-Joshua-McHugh-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Hines-Collective_Tribeca_Photographer-Joshua-McHugh-1200x1800.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" Hines Collective added a gilded wet-bar to this atmospheric Tribeca space. Photo: Joshua McHugh Recessing the bar—kitted out with a beverage station, glassware storage and stocked snack drawers for the movie-loving homeowner—leaves floor space free and clear for a sinuous statement sofa. The client’s brief for the room was “a vampire speakeasy,” says Hines, who is currently designing bars in all his high-end New York home projects. “It was up to us to execute that elegantly.” Texan interior designer Chad Dorsey is fielding an increasing number of requests for another kind of specialized space, the listening bar. In Dallas, the owner-founder of Chad Dorsey Design reinterpreted one home’s narrow and underutilized screened-in porch around how its owners actually spend an evening. At one end, a fireplace is flanked by a turntable and media cabinet full of classic rock records; on the other, a cocktail bar with custom branding, menu and drinks. A Dallas porch becomes a wall-to-wall listening bar by Chad Dorsey Design. Photo: Stephen Karlisch With a great sound system, a variety of seating, and forgiving materials such as lacquer, velvet and brick—“nothing so perfectly coordinated that a little wear or a spilled cocktail is going to throw it off”—this full-room bar is a “destination inside the house, not an afterthought,” according to the designer. Keeping the scheme relaxed and lived-in is crucial to its appeal, he maintains. “Nobody wants a bar that feels off-limits.” Nor do clients want a “generic bar cart in the corner,” says Dorsey. “They want a place with a point of view.” In current projects, Dorsey is “incorporating things like granita machines and a favorite beer, or even sparkling water, on tap. Those details make the bar feel original and personal.” Where possible, dedicating an entire room to a bar allows space to get specific. Adam Kamens, CEO of custom furniture company Amuneal, which supplies many bespoke bar and speakeasy projects, notes there is “definitely an increase, not just in the number of bars we’re designing, but in the footprint dedicated to them.” Just how much square footage depends at which phase the home bar is incorporated into the overall vision. “When a bar is being added to an existing home, we’re often designing units that fit into what’s already there: on counters, floating off walls, hanging from ceilings, sometimes claiming previously underutilized or awkward spaces,” Kamens says. “But when a bar is considered early in the design process, it tends to be more personal, larger in footprint, and much more driven by the experience our client wants to create for themselves or their guests.” Amuneal fabricated bar, built-in, outdoor railing and light fixture. " src="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Jagr-Projects_Philadelphia-Penthouse_Amuneal_Photographer-Ty-Cole-851x1024.jpg" alt="curved mesh bar by Amuneal in a Philadelphia penthouse" class="wp-image-347945" srcset="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Jagr-Projects_Philadelphia-Penthouse_Amuneal_Photographer-Ty-Cole-851x1024.jpg 851w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Jagr-Projects_Philadelphia-Penthouse_Amuneal_Photographer-Ty-Cole-249x300.jpg 249w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Jagr-Projects_Philadelphia-Penthouse_Amuneal_Photographer-Ty-Cole-768x924.jpg 768w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Jagr-Projects_Philadelphia-Penthouse_Amuneal_Photographer-Ty-Cole-1277x1536.jpg 1277w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Jagr-Projects_Philadelphia-Penthouse_Amuneal_Photographer-Ty-Cole-1702x2048.jpg 1702w, https://www.sothebysrealty.com/extraordinary-living-blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Home-Bar_Jagr-Projects_Philadelphia-Penthouse_Amuneal_Photographer-Ty-Cole-1200x1444.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 851px) 100vw, 851px" A curved mesh bar by Amuneal in a Jagr Projects designed Philadelphia penthouse. Photo: Ty Cole However, even a small space offers an opportunity for a design surprise. In the living room of an Aspen, Colorado home, local designer Karen White has concealed a built-in oak-and-leather bar behind floor-to-ceiling blue lacquered doors with a patinated bronze inlay. It’s a pop of color that takes the space from day to night, and a growing trend. “Concealment has become one of the more interesting design problems we get to solve,” says Kamens. “It lets the bar exist on the client’s terms, revealed only when they choose.” While a home bar behind paneled pocket doors might seem a bit quiet in this revived era of entertaining, it can create a “wow” moment for guests, and taps into the prevailing demand for flexible interior spaces. Plus, says Hines, “a bar is one of the few design elements that can be vertically focused. It’s a nice opportunity to balance a room.” Behind closed doors: the bespoke Amuneal bar in Karen White’s Aspen scheme. Photo: Dallas & Harris Whether hidden, showstopping or specialized, home bars allow designers a bit of space to play. “Because of the social nature of the home bar, clients seem to be willing to have a little more fun and be riskier in their design choices,” says Hines, who notes that metallic, glass and luster finishes are currently top preferences. “We’re presenting bolder things and they’re going with it.” The ultimate goal, according to Dorsey, is “a spot in the house that feels like [you’re] going out, without leaving home.” Here’s how to design a party-perfect interior, whatever the season
Whether used to saturate or merely accent, this spectacularly versatile—and surprisingly ancient—finish is always polished, discovers Kate Youde Gloss-finish coffee table by Peter Mikic. Photograph: The Lacquer Company With its high-gloss sheen, lacquer is an eye-catching finish. And it has caught the attention of contemporary designers, who appreciate the freedom it allows them with color. “The finish is rather spectacular if it’s done correctly, and it could end up being the star of the show,” says Peter Mikic, a UK-based interior designer, adding that lacquer comes in “any color” and offers “a different accent for any interior.” Its versatility was on show during Milan Design Week 2026 in April, when luxury interiors brands launched a spectrum of lacquered objects, from sideboards to bathroom vanities, coffee tables to cupboards. Most strikingly it even appeared on seating. Tacchini, for example, introduced 11 matt and gloss lacquer finishes to padded chairs, including a reedition of Italian designer Tobia Scarpa’s celebrated Pigreco design from 1959. Tacchini’s lacquered reedition of the Pigreco chair. Photograph: © Giuseppe Dinnella Lacquer “gives a very interesting edge to form [and] to shape, especially when it is combined with upholstery and fabric and padding,” says Gordon Guillaumier. The Milan-based designer is behind the new three-legged Fosca beechwood dining armchair launched by Frigerio at Milan in 10 glossy lacquered colors. He also designed the Italian brand’s Dao Soft sectional sofa, which can be broken up by small, curved lacquered tables. Fosca armchair in green, by Gordon Guillaumier. Photograph: Frigerio The tactile finish of lacquer can “neutralise a shape” in a white, neutral or beige hue, he says, but “create a very strong character” when applied in a “more decisive color” such as red or black. “It is a kind of vintage approach, dare I say, which gives a very special richness and contrast, because you’ve got a shiny, smooth lacquer on one [hand] and the [matte] upholstery on the other. It creates a very nice balance in design,” adds Guillaumier, whose inspiration includes the use of lacquer in Italian design of the 1960s and 1970s. The current popularity of lacquer—also bringing high shine to home accessories, surfaces, walls and ceilings—is only its most recent revival. While today the term can also refer to a specially applied synthetic spray or paint finish, the use of traditional Asian lacquer, a resin made from tree sap, dates back a couple of thousand years. Its association with glamorous Western interiors was cemented in the early 20th-century art deco period, when designers were inspired by motifs, materials and craftsmanship from countries including Japan and China. The Lacquer Company, which has showrooms in London and New York, works with skilled craftspeople in Saigon on its furniture and home accessories. They use son mai, a traditional Vietnamese lacquer technique that involves applying by hand multiple layers of substances, which are sanded and polished to a glossy finish. Dao Soft sectional sofa with lacquered insert, by Gordon Guillaumier. Photograph: Frigerio Peter Mikic, who collaborated with the company on a collection that includes trays and tables, says using lacquer on furniture conceals the makings of the piece. Instead it “looks like it’s one piece of color”—resulting in a “quite sculptural” effect. This seamlessness makes lacquer excellently suited to luxury interiors, according to Charu Gandhi, founder of London-based studio Elicyon. “Especially when you use it in a color drench or [on a] larger scale, it’s quite immersive,” she says. “It feels like something that’s been poured into a space. It feels very tailored… and that glossiness does speak to a feeling of luxury. It’s that piano key feel, isn’t it? It’s very smart, very clean, very complete.” Saturated yellow lacquer dining room by Peter Mikic. Photograph: Peter Mikic Mikic’s self-titled studio used a red spray lacquer on a staircase in a Gstaad chalet to create a “glamorous impact.” Meanwhile a special yellow lacquer paint—a contemporary take on traditional Japanning lacquer, which imitates traditional Asian techniques—on the walls and ceiling of a London dining room produces a “calming feeling” when the lights are dimmed. He is currently using the same effect, in cream, on the kitchen and breakfast-room ceilings of another London home to give a sheen that contrasts with matt wood-paneled walls. Lacquer bounces light and allows, says Mikic, the “opportunity to play with reflection.” This mirror-like quality appealed to Hugo Vince, co-founder of the Parisian architecture and design studio Atelier HA, when he and his wife, artist Caroline Derveaux, chose yellow and turquoise high-gloss lacquered fronts for the kitchen cabinets in their vibrant Saint-Ouen apartment. “It’s a bit poetic to have lacquer because you see in the doors the life of the room,” says Vince. Hugo Vince’s high-gloss kitchen cabinets. Photograph: © Amaury Laparra He finds lacquer “joyful” and liberating. A recent Parisian loft apartment project by Atelier HA features a bespoke red lacquer stepped platform for a bed, designed “to put the sleeping moment on the main stage,” and red-and-white bookshelves with a coordinating library ladder. Lacquer does, though, require caution. Gandhi warns that applying it to a surface exaggerates any imperfections. Since it reflects everything, the finish can be “quite unforgiving,” not to mention challenging to light. It can also chip. But Vince has found his kitchen robust, despite his three children climbing on the cabinetry and creating a mess with chocolate. “You just have to clean a little bit,” he says. “Don’t be afraid, go for the lacquer!” Seeking further inspiration? Consider setting your fitted kitchen free
The regal residence known as Four Oaks, sited on three lush, versatile acres in the storied enclave of Hope Ranch, has a timeless style befitting a prestigious provenance that includes Fess Parker and Julia Child. Strewn with swaying palms and grandfather oaks, the exclusive Southern California community of Hope Ranch brims with the mythos of the illustrious region’s early days. Named for Irishman Thomas Hope, who moved to the Santa Barbara area in 1849, acquired the land for sheep ranching, and built a home on the property in 1875. By the 1920s, the acreage had taken on a new purpose, as sites for private villas. Santa Barbara, California| Dusty Baker, Greg Moss, Dusty Baker Group, Sotheby’s International Realty – Montecito – Coast Village Road Brokerage The regal residence known as Four Oaks, sited on three versatile acres in that storied enclave, has an appropriately prestigious provenance. In 1934, a prominent Chicago banking family commissioned the home from Edwards and Plunkett, esteemed practitioners of the Spanish Colonial Revival style and architects of the famed Arlington Theatre. Decades later, lauded vintner Fess Parker—also celebrated for his portrayals of Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone on television—called the estate home. Fans of culinary icon Julia Child might recognize the footprint of the living and dining areas as well as the kitchen from her 1980s PBS series “Dinner at Julia’s,” which was filmed here. A recent remodel updated the residence with contemporary comforts and conveniences while respecting its period character and charm. The elegance of a bygone era persists in eye-catching dentil moldings, august hardwood floors, decorative ironwork, surfaces of stately marble, and finely finished millwork. The heart of the home is a light-flooded living room that gives way to a refreshing covered patio and overlooks the expansive grounds. Once the domain—on television, at least—of Ms. Child, the bright, exciting cook’s kitchen features, fittingly, two islands and professional-caliber appliances and flows effortlessly to a family room and a trellised dining patio. Steps away are a formal dining room and a thoughtful butler’s pantry. The handsome wood-paneled library encourages quiet contemplation while offering an idyllic view for inspiration. Throughout the home, French doors blur the indoor-outdoor boundary in delightful fashion. Secluded in a private wing are four inviting bedrooms and baths accompanied by a media room and a fitness room. The tranquil primary suite serves as a true private oasis on the upper level. In addition to a vast restful bedroom, it encompasses a peaceful sitting room, two boutique-caliber walk-in closets, a lavish bath dual vanities and doors to a breezy balcony, and a sheltered deck that gazes out over the colorful property. Short- and long-term visitors will appreciate the style and serenity of the freestanding guesthouse. Practically de rigueur for a Southern California compound are the refreshing swimming pool with deck jets, a compelling tennis court, and a pergola with a fire pit. Enveloping it all are impossibly lush lawn, vibrant rose gardens, and an allée of citrus trees. Also standing stalwart here are the oaks for which the estate was named, enduring reminders of the home’s history and that of its legendary locale. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Helsinki Design Week is a clear highlight, but the Finnish capital is a year-round destination for the creatively curious, writes Paula Hotti Helsinki, Finland | Snellman Sotheby’s International Realty Architects Alvar and Aino Aalto, design houses Marimekko and Iittala and, of course, the Moomins have made Finnish design famous around the world. Yet Helsinki is not content to rest on its 20th-century icons. In Finland’s capital, architecture, interiors, food and public spaces are constantly evolving, while the Baltic Sea, parks and more than 300 islands keep nature remarkably close to urban life. That combination comes alive at the end of summer for Helsinki Design Week. Running August 28 to September 6, the 2026 program brings together architecture, interiors, fashion, digital design and urban planning in the largest Nordic showcase of its kind. One of this year’s highlights, according to founder and CEO Kari Korkman, is the new Futuro house at Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden. Designed by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen in the 1960s, the UFO-shaped Futuro is a classic of experimental architecture. Led by architectural heritage expert Jan van Dijs and created in collaboration with Helsinki Design Week and Marimekko, the project marks the first brand-new Futuro in Finland for 60 years. Helsinki, Finland | Snellman Sotheby’s International Realty Yet, for Helsinki-based Korkman, the city’s creative character extends far beyond the festival. “Helsinki’s restaurant scene provides endless new finds. And they’re ‘design’ too, if you think of the interior architecture and the service concepts. Not to mention the ‘lippakioski’,” he adds, referring to the functionalist-style kiosks dotted around the city, open throughout summer in guises ranging from champagne bars to ice cream parlors. The relationship between city and sea is equally distinctive, Korkman continues, as ferries to the archipelago are part of Helsinki’s public transport system. In fact, Korkman describes the archipelago’s accessibility as one of the city’s great luxuries: “If you fly into Helsinki, within an hour you can be on a ferry to an island, eating well or going sailing.” On the island of Lauttasaari, a 2,150 sq ft residence will soon span the entire top floor of a new-build development. “It comes with views south, west and north, guaranteeing glorious sunsets all year round,” says Soile Goodall, senior broker at Snellman Sotheby’s International Realty. Scheduled for completion in August 2027, “the most compelling aspect is the opportunity to create a genuinely bespoke home from the outset,” she adds. Helsinki, Finland | Snellman Sotheby’s International Realty Helsinki’s cultural appeal is growing. Five of its Aalto-designed buildings were named as Unesco World Heritage sites in July; in spring 2027, the National Museum of Finland will reopen with a new extension; and in 2030, a new Museum of Architecture and Design is due to open, adding another major cultural destination to the waterfront. For residents, this is the essence of Helsinki: a city where sophisticated urban life, world-class design and the freedom of the sea exist within easy reach of one another. Helsinki, Finland | Snellman Sotheby’s International Realty The former Red Cross-owned building in Ullanlinna, dating from 1935, sits close to the shoreline. Within it, a loft apartment with five-metre high ceilings combines industrial rawness with contemporary comfort. “The result is a home with the scale and character of a New York or London loft, but with a distinctly Finnish restraint and attention to detail,” says Goodall. Among its signature Finnish features is a luxurious sauna. In the same neighborhood, a three-bedroom apartment in a 1906 building by celebrated Finnish architect Karl August Wrede has two balconies facing east and west. Residents of the Art Nouveau block also have access to impressive sauna facilities and a private gym. Espoo, Finland | Snellman Sotheby’s International Realty Meanwhile in Helsinki’s neighboring city of Espoo, Villa Snow White showcases architect Pekka Helin’s talent and was nominated for a World Architecture Festival award in 2011. “The house has been designed around its setting rather than simply placed on the plot,” says Goodall. “This is a particularly Finnish approach to luxury—private and closely connected to nature, with quality expressed through architecture, materials and craftsmanship rather than ornament.” Nordic by nature: here’s what sets the best Scandinavian homes apart
Along with a swimming pool, a guesthouse, and a rustic garage barn with a live-work loft, this unique three-bedroom residence—inspired by those built in South Africa’s wine country in the 17th century—anchors an approximately 16-acre estate of gently rolling land strewn with stalwart oaks and suffused with character. Amid orderly rows of grapevines and grasses and oaks carpeting hills and sweeping valleys, this distinctive Cape Dutch–style home could easily be mistaken for a haven from a bygone era and a world away. Recalling the vineyard homesteads of South Africa, the ornately gabled residence was inspired by those built by settlers of that land’s western cape in the 17th century, but that design belies a location in California’s wine region, in the historic town of Glen Ellen. Along with a swimming pool, a guesthouse, and a rustic garage barn with a live-work loft, it anchors an approximately 16-acre estate of gently rolling land strewn with stalwart trees and suffused with character. Glen Ellen, California| Tina Shone, Sotheby’s International Realty – Wine Country – Sonoma Brokerage Designer Patrick Printy—widely regarded for his work with such brands as Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, and Restoration Hardware—and his partner assembled the acreage over a span of years and worked to fashion a home there that manifested their vision. “I’ve always wanted to live in a house that feels as though it has been around forever,” Printy told “Elle Décor,” and to that end, he referenced the symmetrical rectangular floor plans typical of Cape Dutch style. And while the eye-catching exterior is clad in stucco and slate, flooring, beams, fixtures, doors, hardware, and cabinetry were reclaimed from the American Midwest, lending a rich provenance, an elegant weathered patina, and a sense of quality and craftsmanship that practically transcends time. The luminous interiors of the main residence feature a lofty, fluid great room; a cook’s kitchen with handcrafted cabinetry by Johannes Vanmourik and Dutch “witjes” tile; a dedicated office; a climate-controlled wine cellar; a fitness studio; and three bedrooms and baths. Nearly every wall is white, highlighting the warmth and hewing of the woodwork and making the most of the natural light and views. Throughout, picture windows frame trees, sky, and clouds as though they are art, come to life. Terraces are scattered across the grounds, accompanying a refreshing swimming pool, an outdoor fireplace lounge, and a placid water feature. In addition to two peaceful bedrooms and a full bath, the guesthouse offers a sunny open-concept living area with French doors giving way directly to the pool and gardens. Echoing its 18th-century Shaker predecessors, the cupola-crowned barn includes a three-car garage and, above, a bright, airy space that can easily accommodate work, rest, and play. Despite a reverence for Cape Dutch style and a dedication to the organic, timeworn quality of reclaimed materials, the property is unquestionably suited for 21st-century living. Contemporary amenities include high-speed internet, Starlink backup, an estate-wide generator, Control4 home automation, hard-wired speakers, integrated swimming pool management, and extensive infrastructure to accommodate expansion. The property is maintained by a private well, and while swaths of wild grasses preserve an air of unspoiled pastoral plains, solar panels forge a path toward the future. The vast acreage—occupying a total of three parcels—offers a rare opportunity to create a true compound destined to endure for generations to come. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Sainte-Maxime, France | Côte d’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty From the sun-drenched shores of the French Riviera and the Hamptons to the waterfront enclaves of Cyprus and South Florida, this curated collection of exceptional residences showcases luxury real estate at its most compelling. Whether defined by historic provenance, architectural innovation, world-class amenities, or breathtaking natural surroundings, each property offers a distinct expression of elevated living and an opportunity to experience some of the world’s most coveted destinations. Santa Barbara, California Santa Barbara, California | Sotheby’s International Realty – Montecito – Coast Village Road Brokerage Known as Four Oaks, this landmark Hope Ranch estate spans nearly three acres of level grounds and combines architectural pedigree with a celebrated Santa Barbara legacy. Originally designed by renowned firm Edwards & Plunkett and recently reimagined for contemporary living, the six-bedroom residence is complemented by a guest house, tennis court, pool, rose gardens, citrus allée, and expansive lawns, creating an exceptional private retreat in one of California’s most prestigious communities. London, England London, England | United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty Located within the prestigious Chelsea Barracks development, this exceptional six-bedroom townhouse reinterprets classic London elegance through a contemporary lens. Spanning more than 13,000 square feet across six levels, the residence includes formal and informal entertaining spaces, a private spa with swimming pool, gym, cinema, wine room, landscaped garden, and roof terrace, all within one of London’s most secure and sought-after residential enclaves. Sainte-Maxime, France Sainte-Maxime, France | Côte d’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty Ideally positioned in the coveted La Croisette district of Sainte-Maxime, this historic Côte d’Azur estate blends timeless character with exceptional convenience, just moments from the town center and beaches. Set on landscaped grounds, the property encompasses a grand main residence, guest accommodations, swimming pool, terraces, gardens, and sea-view bedrooms, offering a rare opportunity to enjoy Riviera living in a home rich with architectural heritage and provenance. Sagaponack, New York Sagaponack, New York | Sotheby’s International Realty – Bridgehampton Brokerage Located on a quiet oceanfront lane in coveted Sagaponack, New York, this contemporary beach house offers direct access to one of the Hamptons’ most beautiful stretches of shoreline. Designed to maximize its extraordinary setting, the three-bedroom residence features panoramic Atlantic Ocean views from nearly every room, light-filled living spaces that open to wraparound decks, and a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle centered on the sound and scenery of the sea. Limassol, Cyprus Limassol, Cyprus | Cyprus Sotheby’s International Realty Set on a private island within Limassol Marina, this elegant waterfront apartment delivers a lifestyle defined by panoramic views of the Mediterranean, marina, and city skyline. The four-bedroom residence features expansive living spaces, premium finishes, a modern chef’s kitchen, and access to a world-class marina community with luxury dining, shopping, leisure amenities, and direct proximity to the beach. Liberty Lake, Washington Liberty Lake, Washington | Tomlinson Sotheby’s International Realty Perched on nearly 34 private acres in the Inland Northwest, this visionary estate offers a remarkable balance of privacy, craftsmanship, and accessibility. Conceived as a landmark residence, the 7,500-square-foot home is surrounded by sweeping territorial and water views while remaining just minutes from Liberty Lake’s golf courses, recreation, and amenities, establishing a new benchmark for luxury mountain living in the region. Kanagawa, Japan Kanagawa, Japan | List Sotheby’s International Realty, Japan Overlooking the waters of Yoshihama in Yugawara Town, this ocean-view residence offers a rare combination of privacy, natural beauty, and contemporary comfort. Situated on more than 2,200 square meters of land, the home features expansive gardens and sweeping vistas that encompass the coastline, creating a tranquil retreat within easy reach of the Tokyo metropolitan area. Itacaré, Brazil Bahia, Brazil| Bossa Nova Sotheby’s International Realty Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from a dramatic position within the Barracuda Hotel & Villas community, this contemporary residence embraces the natural beauty of Bahia’s coastline. Crafted entirely from certified timber and surrounded by preserved Atlantic Forest, the nine-suite home features expansive indoor-outdoor living areas, an infinity-edge pool, ocean-facing accommodations, and access to resort-style amenities including tennis and padel courts, concierge services, and a helipad. Coral Gables, Florida Coral Gables, Florida | ONE Sotheby’s International Realty Situated within the exclusive gated enclave of Gables Estates, this newly completed tropical-modern waterfront masterpiece represents the pinnacle of South Florida luxury living. Designed by architect Cesar Molina and set on 1.26 acres with more than 260 feet of waterfront frontage, the residence features eight bedroom suites, private dockage, a wellness spa, theater, entertainment spaces, resort-style pool, and seamless indoor-outdoor living designed for both relaxation and grand-scale entertaining. Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
Standout luxury properties have what it takes to be star of the show, writes Nancy Groves Santa Fe, New Mexico | Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe – 326 Grant Avenue Brokerage The real estate mantra “location, location, location” acquires higher meaning for some luxury homes on the market. While any property that isn’t brand new has a history—sometimes across generations of ownership—it’s a rare private home that can lay claim to being a filming location for the large or smaller screen. Location is “the biggest background player of them all, hiding in plain sight,” writes journalist Rebecca Liu in a deep dive on the art of location scouting. But especially in this golden era of television, key locations are immortalized not just on an hour or two of movie celluloid but often across multiple seasons of long-running shows. “Any actual home is far more evocative than a stage,” says veteran location manager Harriet Lawrence. “It has the patina, the texture of a real building, lived in by real people over time.” Some homes become star attractions themselves, while owning a piece of cultural heritage can be a strong draw for buyers. Here are five properties with filming backstories. Rancho Alegre, New Mexico Santa Fe, New Mexico | Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe – 326 Grant Avenue Brokerage When a 178-acre adobe compound in New Mexico came to market this summer, coverage oscillated between its standout aesthetics and its brief but significant cameo in HBO’s “Succession.” It starred as the remote ranch of Logan Roy’s eldest son Connor, where the family gathers for their infamous group therapy session. Of course, the two are connected. “The setting is expansive and the main house exudes the uber-desirable feel of the west or southwest U.S.,” says Neil Lyon of Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe Brokerage. Lyon says the home possesses “incredible scale with no possible way to miss it” and “a level of quality that could only be associated with great wealth and taste,” assuring its popularity with scouts. The 20,000 sq ft property has also featured in Adam Sandler’s “The Ridiculous 6,” sci-fi teen drama series “Roswell” and the murdery mystery series “Dark Winds.” Twilight Moon Ranch, Utah Oakley, Utah | Summit Sotheby’s International Realty – Park City Another ranch property, another state, but no less an illustrious television credit: for Paramount’s neo-Western drama “Yellowstone,” starring Kevin Costner. Utah’s Twilight Moon Ranch, built in 2014 on eight acres just a short drive from Park City, takes inspiration from the surrounding mountains for its architecture and interiors. While the “Yellowstone” filming focused mainly on its huge, light-filled kitchen, with seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms it makes a generous family home or rental. The home is being sold with all its contents—give or take a stuffed animal or two. Belain Farm, Ontario Caledon, Ontario | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada L.M. Montgomery’s beloved book “Anne of Green Gables” is set in the fictional town of Avonlea on the very real Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest province. But when scouts for the recent Netflix adaption “Anne with an E” were hunting for suitable locations, they landed some 1,000 miles west in Ontario. Belain Farm is a picturesque property that stands in for the family home of Anne’s best friend, Diana Barry. The central farmhouse exudes all the necessary charm, while its pond makes the perfect “Lake of Shining Waters,” as Anne herself calls it. 453 West 24th Street, New York New York, New York | Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Brokerage As any “Sex in the City” fan will tell you, no tour of Carrie Bradshaw’s fictional life is complete without a photo op on a classic Manhattan stoop. While the listing for this 1849 red brick townhouse in West Chelsea keeps schtum on its exact screen credits, it epitomizes New York’s history and romance and frequently features on television. Maybe it’s the tree-lined street, elegant railings and floor-to-ceiling parlor windows. Or the private garden and balcony out back. Four main floors of living space are contained within, while hiding at basement level is a 5,000-bottle wine cellar. Spencer Hills House, California Mendocino, California | Mendo Sotheby’s International Realty The Californian coastal town of Mendocino has a rich cinematic history, thanks to its elegant architecture, cliffside setting and abundant greenery. But arguably it is best known as the West Coast stand-in for the East Coast town of Cabot Cove in the long-running TV series “Murder She Wrote,” now with a cult following. Spencer Hills House, home to the show’s Dr. Seth Hazlitt, is among the town’s finest properties. Built in 1855, it has all the design hallmarks of a Mendocino Victorian, from its custom trim to the wraparound veranda—star of many a dramatic scene. A luxury property’s filming history “solidifies its place and associations with intriguing events and people,” says Lyon. Practically, the exposure can lead to an audience of many millions. Emotionally, a sizable chunk of those viewers will be “blown away by its beauty and what it represents.” You’ve watched “The Odyssey.” Now visit the islands where Homer’s story is set
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