Tag: luxury homes for sale

From Connecticut to California, these homes are anchored by dramatic staircases—elegantly ornate and crisply contemporary—that provide glamorous introductions and serve as fascinating focal points.

Villa la Marina

 Cassidy Hiepler, Linda Rich | Sotheby’s International Realty – Westlake Village Brokerage

This breathtaking Italian-inspired estate is an architectural tour de force. Highlights include a kitchen with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, a loggia, an outdoor kitchen, an indoor-outdoor bar, a wine cellar, a cigar salon, a theater, and a seven-car garage. In the foyer, a striking staircase with an ornate iron railing links the public spaces with the peaceful private quarters. The lush grounds feature a saltwater infinity-edge pool, a pool house, a guest villa, an amphitheater, a fire pit, fruit trees, and vegetable and herb gardens.

Mediterranean Manor in Texas

 Bryan Beene | Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

On a cul-de-sac in a desirable gated community, this Mediterranean-style residence is replete with custom details. A vaulted, domed ceiling crowns a foyer with tall arched windows and a gracefully curving staircase that provides a dramatic first impression. Beyond are elegant living and dining rooms, a wet bar and wine grotto, a chef’s kitchen, a main-floor owner’s retreat with a walk-in closet and a spa-like bath, a media room, and three guest suites. Two outdoor kitchens accompany the heated saltwater pool and spa.

Light-Filled Hamptons Living

Bodenchak Team | Sotheby’s International Realty – Bridgehampton Brokerage

Filled with glorious light, this five-bedroom home shares its manicured one-acre grounds with a refreshing infinity-edge pool and spa, a tennis court, and an outdoor kitchen and bar. A dazzling contemporary staircase with glass railings and floating treads rises beside a sunny window wall, linking the levels. The 5,300-square-foot residence also offers a formal living and dining rooms, a media room with surround sound, a kitchen with a waterfall Island and top-tier appliances, and a recreation room with a bar and wine room.

Traditional Greenwich Grandeur

Jill Tighe Kelly | Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

Overlooking Partridge Hollow Lake from its 6.13-acre property in a prestigious gated neighborhood, this bright, beautiful 6,124-square-foot manor enjoys idyllic views. A double-height foyer with a butterfly staircase introduces spaces perfectly scaled and appointed for refined living and entertaining: a living room with a fireplace, a formal dining room, a family room with fireplace, a library, a kitchen with a breakfast area, a recreation and billiards room, and a wraparound deck. The park-like grounds offer a pool and a warming fire pit.

Modern Santa Fe Getaway

Emily I. Garcia | Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe Brokerage

This impressive property blends modern design, Santa Fe style, and a resort-like ambience. Sited on 1.4 acres with picturesque views of the Jemez and Ortiz Mountains, the 6,184-square-foot residence was remodeled in 2021 with luxurious fixtures and finishes, including seven fireplaces, plaster walls, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Accented with eye-catching tile, a six-foot-wide skylit staircase leads to the 1,200-square-foot primary suite. The backyard features a portal and deck looking out over a lap pool toward the mountains.

Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC

Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services. In February 2004, Realogy entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744.

Brian Neal – Costa Rica Sotheby’s International Realty

Costa Rica has never been afraid to buck convention. In 1948, the tiny Latin American country retired its military so it could put more money into health and education. It also reversed the destructive deforestation common across South and Central America in order to show the world that land doesn’t have to be agricultural to be productive.

Now, rather than going against the trends, Costa Rica is the trend. The country serves as a practical paragon of how a society can successfully embrace a green economy and embody the principles of sustainable development and design. 

Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainable design doesn’t just extend to its industry and infrastructure. The country is also home to astonishingly beautiful and innovative architecture, including luxury residences that set a new standard for their ecologically sound ethics and aesthetics.

A Conflux of Flora and Fauna

Wijbrand Tuinstra – Costa Rica Sotheby’s International Realty

Built from natural and sustainable materials, boasting eco-friendly appliances, and fuelled by renewable energy, this modern villa in La Cruz encapsulates everything that makes Costa Rica such a premier environmental destination. That’s especially true when looking at its location.

Despite comprising just 0.03% of the earth’s surface, Costa Rica houses more than 6% of its biodiversity, and 3.5% of the ocean’s marine life shelters on its shores. So this home, poised perfectly between the jungle and the beach, is set amid a rich ecological sanctuary.

Protect the Pristine Biosphere

Wijbrand Tuinstra – Costa Rica Sotheby’s International Realty

With such a huge variety of animals and vegetation, the Oda Península Eco Lodge couldn’t be more suitably placed. The Saimiri Wildlife Refuge surrounds it on all sides and the Corcovado National Park is situated nearby. And as it’s part of the Golfo Dulce Forestry Reserve, no logging will happen here or on the adjacent properties.

This level of environmental preservation is now the norm in Costa Rica, as more than a quarter of the country’s land is conserved through a network of 28 national parks.

Nature Cultivates Collective Joy

Paula Zúñiga – Costa Rica Sotheby’s International Realty

It’s no wonder that Costa Rica is known for the quality of its resorts—just look at Casa Natura, situated on a gorgeous green golf course and sporting the longest saltwater pool in the Hacienda Pinilla resort.

In 1994, Costa Ricans were guaranteed the right to a healthy environment through the country’s constitution. After all, it’s a well-established fact that proximity to nature is great for physical and mental well-being—and this home is about as close to nature as it gets.

An Abundance of Clean Energy

Brian Neal – Costa Rica Sotheby’s International Realty

Costa Rica is showing the world that sustainability isn’t a compromise: modern convenience doesn’t have to come at the cost of the environment. Villa Esperanza demonstrates this exquisitely, sparing no expense in its luxurious details while still enabling eco-friendly living.

In Costa Rica, this is the rule rather than the exception, since approximately 99% of the nation’s energy is now generated from renewable sources including hydroelectric, geothermal, wind, and solar power.

Life’s Better Beneath the Trees

Costa Rica Sotheby’s International Realty

Not only does Costa Rica’s power grid not contribute to pollution or greenhouse gas emissions; the country’s dense forest canopy is simultaneously purifying the air and extracting carbon from the atmosphere. And Casa Pacifico is doing its part as well, with extensive grounds covered in lush trees and a bed of fertile soil on its roof.

Today, Costa Rica is 98% free of deforestation—a remarkable recovery given that its forest cover had fallen to 21% as recently as 1987. The country’s restoration of its natural biosphere has been purposeful and profound, and today more than half the land is home to thriving jungle.

Costa Rica is proving to the world that another type of lifestyle is not only possible, but readily attainable. It’s a lifestyle that’s conscientious and compassionate, yet no less comfortable. And even better, it’s a lifestyle that can endure happily for years, decades, and centuries to come.

Want to learn more about sustainable luxury? Look inside this LEED certified beachfront estate in Hawaii.

Featuring curated videos from the most sought-after destinations the world over, discover this  week’s Video of the Week.

Orapiu, New Zealand | Pene Milne, New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty

This heavenly five hectare riparian parcel embodies a visceral spirit of place. Its total redesign by award winning Sumich Chaplin Architects in 2009 has created a priceless sanctuary.

The timeless home with extensive terraces, helipad, jetty and boat ramp is perfectly nestled in its own secluded northerly position at the head of Omaru Bay. Luxury finishes and graceful proportions cater seamlessly for intimate, romantic living to the wholly extravagant occasion, with water views from all seven suites. A palpable sense of stillness and tranquility envelops you as you move through the grounds via a glade of native amphitheatre and landscaped pasture, along fairway-like headland to an extensive grassed waterfront recreational area. From the astonishing floating infinity pool you look across your own private bay towards the Coromandel and the eastern islands of the Hauraki Gulf – just ten minutes by boat.

This unrepeatable experience is found so close to the heart of Auckland – 30 minutes drive from Oneroa, 20 minutes from the vehicle ferry, five minutes to the Orapiu passenger ferry – or a mere 10-15 minute helicopter ride from Auckland City.

Discover tours of luxury homes for sale around the world on our award-winning YouTube Channel

Once one of Manhattan’s bustling industrial districts, today the Tribeca neighborhood is a dynamic cultural center and prized residential destination—a nexus of painstakingly updated lofts and shops in historic, often architecturally significant buildings on charming cobblestone streets. Atop a building that dates to the beginning of the 20th century, this 5,802-square-foot duplex penthouse is a standout among these coveted residences, recently impeccably renovated to create a stunning example of stylish modern living with a strong connection to the outdoors. Select original elements—including stately concrete columns—exist harmoniously alongside contemporary features and fixtures, from sleek lines to such thoughtful built-ins as bookshelves to bunk beds.

New York, New York | The Stein Team, Sotheby’s International Realty – Downtown Manhattan Brokerage

Spaces for festive entertaining and private relaxation are plentiful and found on both of the home’s two floors. An open living room, dining room, and kitchen on the entry level is flooded with light from floor-to-ceiling windows, which afford refreshing views of the greenery of St. John’s Park. In addition to its chef-pleasing stainless-steel appliances and walk-in pantry, the inviting kitchen features a striking marble-topped island with counter seating. Throughout the space, soaring 11-foot ceilings contribute to a serene sense of airiness.

A casual skylit living room and a media room with a convenient kitchenette are located on the upper floor. Just outside a pair of glass doors is a private landscaped and irrigated terrace, an enviable escape for enjoying fresh air and views of the Freedom Tower and the Midtown skyline. High above it all on the rooftop is a rare second terrace that awaits the finishing touches of a discerning new owner.

For more private moments, the residence offers five bedrooms, chief among them a primary suite with walk-in closets and an eye-catching marble bath with a luxurious soaking tub and unique rain-shower. The four guest bedrooms are accompanied by en suite baths and generous closets. Other highlights include office space to satisfy the busy professional, a cheerful play area with abundant built-in storage options, and rooms suitable for nearly any sort of fitness. Despite the home’s historic provenance and locale, every modern comfort and convenience has been seen to, from automated blinds and top-tier audiovisual components to a digital Savant system to maintain it all from anywhere around the world.

Located on the corner of Laight Street—just across the street from the Hudson River Park—the building is a pet-friendly pre-war collection of condominiums with a part-time door attendant. The neighborhood offers delightful sidewalk cafes, some of the city’s best restaurants, cutting-edge galleries, artists’ studios, theaters, music venues, and a riverfront trail.

Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com

Santa Monica, California 

Robin Walpert | Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Monica Brokerage, US$11,351,000

Singapore

Steve Tay | List Sotheby’s International Realty, Singapore, SG$18,500,000

Makena, Hawaii

Ryan MacLaughlin, Alex Cortez | Island Sotheby’s International Realty, US$28,500,000

Marbella, Spain

Enrique Silgo | Seville Sotheby’s International Realty, EUR€7,300,000

La Loma, Mexico

Laura de la Torre, Mariana Méndez | Mexico Sotheby’s International Realty, US$3,100,000

Discover previous editions of Significant Sales on the blog

One of the benefits of owning an expansive estate is being able to offer visitors their own truly private quarters. From Sagaponack to Sonoma, these guesthouses are secluded spaces to relax in comfort and style.

Stylish Sonoma Oasis

Ginger Martin, Daniel Casabonne | Sotheby’s International Realty – Sonoma Brokerage

On Sonoma’s desirable east side, just blocks from the historic plaza, this modern estate epitomizes chic wine country living. The private 2.5-acre property includes a light-flooded three-bedroom main residence with stunning vineyard and mountain views, 1.5 acres of recently planted pinot noir hobby vineyards, a refreshing pool and spa, covered and open-air spaces for alfresco dining and lounging, an outdoor kitchen, and an inviting guesthouse with a living area, a thoughtful kitchenette, and one stylish bedroom and bath.

Eagle Wing Estate

Kingshill Martini Group | Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

On the banks of Lake Houston, this majestic estate is surrounded by trees on 2.17 forest-like acres. The idyllic property includes a unique pool with a waterfall, a spa, a pond, a waterfront gazebo, the lake’s largest boat house, a lighted basketball court, and a five-bedroom main residence with elegant living and entertaining areas, an elevator, and a five-car garage. The European-inspired casita enjoys its own covered patio, a well-appointed kitchen, and other versatile spaces.

Southern California Villa

Lea Johnson | Sotheby’s International Realty – Malibu Brokerage

Occupying a tranquil corner lot in a prestigious gated Westlake Village enclave, this 3.16-acre estate is a timeless, stylish retreat with mountain and golf course views. In addition to a single-level Mediterranean-inspired main residence with a four-car garage, a pool with a casita, two spas, a pergola, and other outdoor entertaining areas, the compound offers a spacious guesthouse featuring a private courtyard, a living room with a fireplace, kitchen and laundry facilities, and one bedroom and bath.

Sagaponack’s Winnecoma Estate

Dana Trotter, Shane Donahue | Sotheby’s International Realty – Bridgehampton Brokerage

This bucolic compound of approximately four acres—which includes some 1.4 acres of conservation land and specimen trees—is the site of one of Sagaponack’s first summer homes. Dating to 1899, when it was a summer getaway and horse farm, it features a timeless gambrel-style main residence, a three-bedroom carriage house with a two-car garage, a woodshop created from the property’s former stables, and a one-bedroom, one-bath guesthouse with its own charming living and dining area as well as studio space for the artist.

Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC

Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services. In February 2004, Realogy entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744.

Charles Andrews – ONE Sotheby’s International Realty

It’s no exaggeration to say that Miami Beach is a marvel—a marvel of nature, culture, engineering and ingenuity. Barrier islands, some of which were man made, stretch between the radiant waters of Biscayne Bay and the turquoise tides of the Atlantic. They are home to some of the world’s finest resorts and residences, shopping and dining, and art, architecture, and design.

But the best work of art and architecture is one that you can call your own—one that you can call home. And to that end, nothing compares to this custom, canal-side masterpiece located in the exceptional Biscayne Point, one of the most prominent communities in Miami Beach. Every day spent in this stunning villa, and in this vibrant city, brings new spaces to explore.

Morning: From the Beaches to the Boardwalk

When the sun’s first rays fan over the eastern horizon, reaching across the open expanse of the ocean, you’re already enjoying it from your rooftop sundeck, sipping your coffee next to the plunge pool. The tropical foliage sways lightly in a mild breeze, and it’s so pleasant that you’re tempted to head to North Beach Oceanside Park, a renowned (yet still tranquil) nature area that you can drive to within minutes.

But you’ll have plenty of other days to relax on the beach; right now, you have plans. You go to the garage, get the car, and head out onto State Road A1A—also known as the iconic Collins Avenue—which parallels the shoreline all the way from your home in Biscayne Point to South Pointe Park at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach. It’s a scenic drive, and as you approach the city center, near 17th Street, you park so you can stroll down the famous Miami Beach Boardwalk.

Once you reach the acclaimed Lincoln Road, it’s time for breakfast. This one-of-a-kind pedestrian mall, designed by the distinguished architect Morris Lapidus, was constructed in 1960, has a global reputation for its restaurants, cafés, shops, and galleries. It’s not busy right now and you can take your time touring the picturesque coastal boulevards; Arts Center South Florida, the Colony Theater, and the New World Symphony are all located here, and you make a mental note to check out their programs this season.

Noon: Art Basel Arrives in the Art Deco District

Now for the real reason you’ve come to the middle of town today: as November draws to an end, the city is preparing for the launch of Art Basel. That means the best of the international art world has landed in the Art Deco Historic District, energized by premier exhibitions, inspiring installations, elegant parties, and a broad selection of curated ancillary events.

By the time you return home in the early afternoon, you’re invigorated. You prepare a light, delicious lunch in your state-of-the-art, open-concept dining and living space, with its vaulted wooden ceilings and garden views. A retractable wall of glass grants immediate access to your immaculate poolside patio.

Admiring your property, you can’t help but notice how the main level—with its purpose-built art walls lined with hardwood, perfect acoustics, and open floor plan—would be an ideal showcase for several of the pieces you just witnessed. As you return to Art Basel Miami Beach in the days ahead, you’ll have an eye for expanding your private collection.

Night: A Twilight Cruise Through Biscayne Bay

You’re excited to return to the southern portion of the city because Art Basel isn’t the only festival to showcase color and sound late in the season. At the end of November and the beginning of December, SCOPE Miami Beach brings approximately 150 artists with diverse contemporary practices to different sites around town.

After browsing the work on display at SCOPE Miami Beach, you head a little further west along 8th Street to the Designer District, an urban enclave of upscale boutiques where you can not only engage in a little retail therapy, but meander north back onto the Art Deco streets of downtown, and find a fashionable restaurant to order some dinner.

When you arrive home, the sun is setting over mainland Miami, and you just have to soak in the beauty. Luckily, just beyond your covered terrace, personal spa, and infinity pool, your home is among those with exclusive waterfront access. With your beautiful private boardwalk leading straight to the brand new dock and proprietary boat lift, setting sail is enviably easy. It takes no time for you to settle comfortably in your personal vessel and head out onto Biscayne Bay to make the most of the breathtaking evening views. As the sun sets and you chart a course homeward, you’re already thinking about what tomorrow holds in store.

Read more from our Life of Luxury series

Photo Credit:Alexander Serzhantov

Sotheby’s International Realty today announced the opening of Kazakhstan Sotheby’s International Realty, signifying the brand’s continued expansion to nearly 220 offices in the EMEIA region.

Kazakhstan Sotheby’s International Realty is owned and operated by Andrei Manoukovski and will be led by CEO, Diana Alieva, who bring nearly 30 years of collective real estate experience to the company. The company is headquartered in the city of Almaty and will service the entire country, including the cities of Almaty, Astana, Shimkent, Aktobe, and Pavlador.

“Kazakhstan is known for its hospitality, authentic cuisine, and being rich in nature,” said Philip White, president and CEO of Sotheby’s International Realty. “The country debuted on the Global Fintech Index in 2021 and investors are demonstrating interest in the country’s real estate market. There is also a growing trend to increase new development projects. Our continued international expansion further enables our brand to grow strategically and provide added referral opportunities for our clients. I look forward to working with Diana and the entire Kazakhstan Sotheby’s International Realty team.”

“Our mission is to demonstrate the benefits of real estate investments to clients and our region,” said Alieva. “Kazakhstan is a country with established luxury. Clients value quality and trust brands with history. Currently, there are no real estate brands in the region that offer global recognition. Our affiliation with Sotheby’s International Realty allows us to differentiate ourselves as a company that represents high standards, heritage, and luxury.”

The company has several agents, and their team consists of financial and investment specialists to aid clients on the market and their real estate portfolios.

North of Santa Fe, where the Sangre de Cristo Mountains begin to roll toward the historic downtown, an incomparable estate stretches gracefully across a 3.7-acre hilltop amid the piñon- and juniper-strewn terrain. Unparalleled in the area for its scope, self-sufficiency, security, and superior construction and finishes, it features four distinct residences, spa and fitness facilities, a chicken coop, a greenhouse, a resort-caliber swimming pool and spa, a veritable outdoor cinema, and numerous other alfresco entertaining spaces. Walking paths wind through colorful flora; perennial, vegetable, and herb gardens; fruit trees; berry vines and bushes; and three serene water features.

Santa Fe, New Mexico | Tim Van Camp, John Rigatti, Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe Brokerage

The main residence offers some 7,000 square feet of living and entertaining space. Its heart is an elegant living room and an adjoining dining room—both with fireplaces and doors to a magnificent portal and pool terrace. In addition to a well-equipped residential kitchen with a bar and a butler’s pantry, the home boasts a rare true professional kitchen with Imperial appliances, a grill top, and a pizza oven. A nearby spiral staircase leads to the 600-bottle wine cellar. The casual media room features built-in speakers.

The owner’s suite is secluded in its own secure wing and encompasses a luxurious bedroom, a courtyard with stairs leading to a rooftop deck, a spa-inspired bath with a massage area, an impressive room-sized walk-in closet, a sitting room, and a library. In a wing on the opposite end of the residence are two peaceful guest suites. An additional two-bedroom apartment with a living area and kitchen is tucked above the three-car garage. The residence also includes generous staff quarters with a catering kitchen and a professional-scale laundry room.

The chic 4,000-square-foot residence known as “Cielo” offers an entertainment area with a fireplace, a breezy portal, a dramatic balcony with a fireplace and a mountain view, a peaceful bedroom suite, and a bunk room that can sleep eight. The lower level houses fur, art, and sports-equipment storage; a massage room; a gym; a sauna; and a full beauty salon. The sophisticated 5,000-square-foot “Bella Vista” residence includes a great room with a fireplace and a 22-person dining area, a chef’s kitchen, a butler’s pantry, a plating kitchen, a wet bar, two powder rooms, an all-season portal, and a heated glass-railed balcony for appreciating the eponymous view. A family room with a bar, discreet laundry facilities, two bedroom suites, and two eight-person bunk rooms with baths are located on the lower level. The new “Verano” duplex consists of two one-bedroom apartments, each with its own stylish bath, en suite wet bar, and private outdoor space.

Santa Fe’s four distinct seasons allow for outdoor living and entertaining nearly year-round. In addition to a projector and retractable screen that face an expansive lawn, the “Campo” entertainment pavilion offers a living area with a fireplace, a dining arbor, a wet bar, and a half bath. Easily accessible from all the homes is a dazzling heated swimming pool and a 10-person spa surrounded by an expansive sun-washed terrace. Nearby is a magnificent multi-season portal with a wood-burning Anasazi-stone fireplace, heaters, and retractable screens and walls.

The estate is known familiarly as Vida Encantada, which means “enchanted life.” An unprecedented collection of refined homes, gardens, and venues for diversion, it undoubtedly lives up to its name.

Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com

Showcasing the height of new luxury construction in some of the world’s most sought-after locations, let’s explore an exclusive new development from our worldwide network.

Houston, Texas | Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Patiently held in reserve for 70 years, 1661 Tanglewood builds upon the founding Farrington-Miller family tradition of bold vision. Accommodating every comfort of urban high rise living, these mansions in the sky offer interiors of exceptional character, generous proportions and a considered lifestyle.

The building welcomes residents through a grand entrance with a guardhouse. Residents and visitors are attended by full-time door and lobby staff. Across the expansive ground floor, rich amenity spaces set the tone.

The spaces are defined by marble pilasters, bas-reliefs, custom upholstery by Rose Tarlow, a bespoke crystal chandelier, and a curated mix of rare antiques. Impeccable marble, onyx and hardwoods extend all the way through the elevator lobby. Every detail, every finish and every element show thoughtful curation for timeless effect.

Discover luxury developments represented by Sotheby’s International Realty around the world

Whether it’s the setting for a festive formal fête or a casual weeknight meal, the dining room is a key space in every modern home. From Fifth Avenue to the hills above the Napa Valley, these spaces encourage everyone to gather at the table in style.

Hillside Haven in Napa

Hillary Ryan | Sotheby’s International Realty – St. Helena Brokerage

This 11.5-acre wine country estate on a secluded hillside includes a four-bedroom home, a two-bedroom guesthouse, two swimming pools, a sports court, multiple outdoor entertaining areas, and its own vineyard. The main residence features a primary suite with a spa-like bath, two offices—one with a wet bar—a media room, a wine cellar, a fitness room, a chic living room, and an adjoining dining room with a vaulted ceiling, plentiful windows, and glass doors to a sunny terrace with commanding views of the valley.

The Hampton House

Mary Lou Castellanos | Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

The regal estate known as the Hampton House was conceived by architect Albert L. Farr in 1928, has been expanded over the ensuing decades, and has been meticulously modernized by the current owners. The 11,150-square-foot three-level residence offers abundant spaces for stylish living and entertaining, including eight bedrooms; living, game, and media rooms; and a stately formal dining room with hardwood floors and an eye-catching chandelier. The impressive one-acre grounds encompass expansive patios, rolling lawns, a tennis court, and a guesthouse.

Eighteenth-Century Greenwich Gem

Leslie McElwreath | Sotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

Built in 1710, this distinctive Napoleon III-style residence offers a unique blend of period details and modern appointments and amenities. The 8,077-square-foot floor plan boasts six bedrooms and both formal and informal spaces for living and entertaining, among them a gourmet kitchen with an adjoining family room, a living room with a fireplace, a butler’s pantry with a wet bar and a wine chiller, and a chic dining room with French doors to the wraparound covered porch and walls that echo the enveloping greenery.

Fifth Avenue Finery

Sheila Ellis | Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

No detail has been overlooked in the painstaking renovation of this grand 16-room residence on the third floor of its 1928 Frederick French–designed building. On the corner of 82nd Street and Fifth Avenue, it gazes out toward the Metropolitan Museum of Art and regal neighboring townhouses. Its generously proportioned floor plan features a luxurious primary suite, five guest bedrooms, a chef’s kitchen, a magnificent living room, a library, and adjoining the kitchen, a spacious formal dining room with an elegant chandelier.

Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC

Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services. In February 2004, Realogy entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744.

Some techno-futurists predict that we may one day spend most of our time connected to a “metaverse,” or upload our minds to the cloud to achieve a sort of digital immortality.

Whether or not this is probable, or even possible, there’s no denying that a significant portion of our lives are now lived virtually. Beyond the relatively straightforward interfaces of social media—Instagram, TikTok, and the like—people are creating and sharing content in real time on platforms such as Twitch, while speaking directly to global audiences through Discord servers. They play video games together and partake in simultaneous VR experiences, and companies are currently trying to network these into a much larger multiverse—communal spaces where users are already making, buying, and selling unique collectibles as NFTs.

It therefore seems likely that in the near future, and almost certainly in the far future, a lot of people will live their lives with one foot in the physical world and another in the digital world, and the various virtual realities that come alive there. And they’ll want to share these spaces and cyberspaces with others.

So what does a luxury home need to feature in this compelling new world? These four homes show how to harness the digital dimension without sacrificing social connection.

The Perfect House Party in San Diego

Deborah Greenspan – Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Some futurist trends are already here—for example, it’s not unheard of to host a get-together where some guests visit in-person while others dial in virtually. Nor is it particularly unusual to host a gathering where avatars unite in a digital venue. You can do either—or both—in this stunning San Diego home. Chic layouts, sleek lighting, and an abundance of high-definition consoles makes the property feel like a portal to the future, thanks to the masterful architecture by Blue Heron, an award-firm known for designing forward-thinking, experiential spaces.

Work From the Multiverse in Marbella

Juan Simonet – Madrid Sotheby’s International Realty

From the outside, this contemporary villa in Marbella looks like it could have been dreamt up by an audacious computer animator rather than an architect, with its striking modern angles, massive panoramic windows, and unique lighting. Step inside, and you find a home custom-curated for someone who loves to live, work, and play in both real and virtual worlds: the luminous primary suite is adjacent to an impressive office surrounded by water.

A Multimedia Mansion in Saint Martin

Lesley Reed – St. Maarten Sotheby’s International Realty

The centerpiece of this relaxing retreat on the island of Saint Martin might be the saltwater pool—with its geometric gazebo, plush daybeds, and views of tropical woods and waters—but the real value-add of this property is the sense of connection and connectivity it provides. Its five fully-appointed ground-level suites are ideal for friends and family, and all feature a SmartTV, Bose soundbar, and Bluetooth capabilities so that when you’re not lounging offline in the sun, you can be having all sorts of shared online fun.

Raise Your (Video) Game in Petoskey

Brad Rellinger and Eric Lohman – Harbor Sotheby’s International Realty

Virtual happy hours have become a mainstay in a world where digital technologies have diminished our sense of distance, and this estate on the shores of Walloon Lake lets you enjoy your drinks and devices in style. Not only are virtual media easily accessible across its various social spaces—such as the designated media room, located not far from the bar—but there’s even a full-size golf simulator so you and your guests can perfect your swing technique before you head out onto the actual course.

For many people, the promise of cyberspace is sheer escapism—jettisoning themselves out of this world and into another. But when you live in a property like these, it’s not about running off to a new realm; it’s about welcoming the multiverse into the comfort of home—a home that blurs the boundaries between physical and digital, present and future, real and imagined.

Looking for more ways to stay entertained? See these five game rooms to take you into Fall.

Featuring curated videos from the most sought-after destinations the world over, discover this  week’s Video of the Week.

Los Angeles, California | The Cilic Group, Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Monica – Venice Brokerage

Featured on the cover of Architectural Digest and the winner of the AIA Best Residential Design, this stunning home soars over the city lights with breathtaking views spanning from downtown Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean.

10-foot-high automatic glass doors slide open to seamlessly blend indoors and out. A spacious yard and wide decks surround the home offering numerous options for outdoor seating, dining and entertaining. Bask in the sun on the expansive pool deck or the upper outdoor patio.

A floating concrete staircase leads up to a jaw-dropping primary suite with 2 fireplaces and a luxurious bath. Gated and private, this was also the former home of fashion designer Randolph Duke. It is one of the most easily accessible homes in the hills with panoramic views, privacy and outdoor space.

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In the heart of Houston’s Inner Loop, the landmark neighborhood of River Oaks is a lush, leafy enclave and one of Houston’s most exclusive, revered for its stalwart oak trees, quiet streets, and exceptional estates designed by illustrious architects.

Houston, Texas | , Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

This elegant new five-bedroom residence is right at home in these rarefied environs, with design and construction by two local residential luminaries, Jennifer Hamelet of Mirador Builders and Murphy Mears Architects. Boasting a unique combination of Old World style—augmented by imported elements from Chateau Domingue—expert craftsmanship, and contemporary comforts and conveniences, it is a rare oasis surrounded by bucolic gardens, a lush lawn, carefully selected and positioned landscaping, towering trees, and a chic swimming pool and spa with a pavilion.

The interior floor plan features spaces ideal for effortless entertaining: a light-filled “salon” with European limestone floors, oversized steel-framed windows and glass doors, 11-foot beamed ceilings, and a grand stone fireplace; a sophisticated formal dining room with a custom limestone fireplace; a true chef’s kitchen with a Lacanche range, a butcher-block island, and a marble-topped pastry station; a scullery with pantry and storage space, dual Sub-Zero wine chillers, an additional oven, laundry facilities, and a sink; multiple beverage bars; and two powder rooms. For more casual moments, the den is an inviting space adjoining the kitchen and overlooking the backyard, while the contemplative library offers ample built-in bookshelves. The encouragement of festive gatherings continues outdoors on the serene loggia, on sunny limestone patios, in the summer kitchen, beside a dazzling pool with whimsical deck jets, and in the pool pavilion, with its striking stone wood-burning fireplace and wiring for sound and video.

For quiet, private moments, the estate provides five bedrooms—all with warmly hued wide-plank white-oak hardwood flooring. Among them is the primary suite, an opulent oasis with a gas fireplace, a vaulted ceiling with a Murano glass chandelier, two room-sized walk-in closets with thoughtfully chosen built-ins, and a soaking tub, dual showers, heated antique French tile flooring, and wiring for television and sound in the bath.

The home’s dedication to style and European flair is matched by its attention to technology. Systems and maintenance are easily managed in the “command center,” which houses controls for the audiovisual wiring, a whole-house generator, a beverage cooler, dual LG washers and dryers, a built-in LG steam cleaner, and drawers and cabinets for optimal storage and organization. The three-car garage includes space for an auto lift as well as capability to add the latest de rigueur amenity: an electric car charger.

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