Tag: luxury homes

Maritha Keil – British Virgin Islands Sotheby’s International Realty 

Imagine having an island resort—or an entire private island—all to yourself. Its warm and inviting seaside sundecks await, and its elegant spas and pools beckon. The deluxe bedrooms and ensuites are yours to enjoy every beautiful evening.

The most exceptional island properties make this level of luxury an everyday reality, with amenities for recreation, relaxation, and wellness that look like an itinerary for the jet set. Here are three such homes, and the fabulously laissez-faire lifestyle they afford.

Luxuriate in the Sun and Surf on Virgin Gorda

Maritha Keil – British Virgin Islands Sotheby’s International Realty 

Of all the various isles and cays that comprise the British Virgin Islands, it’s perhaps Virgin Gorda that has the greatest hold on the popular imagination. The otherworldly granite grottoes of The Baths bring visitors to lively Spanish Town, as do scenic, sheltered harbors—such as Devil’s Bay and Little Dix Bay—that nestle along its curving coasts, boasting white-sand beaches and shimmering turquoise waters.

Situated snugly in the hills above Little Dix Bay is Villa Katsura, a vast estate consisting of three distinct pavilions, along with an expanse of pristine land that descends to the beaches below. Connected by gorgeous stone walkways and bamboo groves—which encompass three koi ponds, 11 serene water features, and a Zen garden—it’s easy to forget that this is a private residence rather than a refuge for royals and celebrities.

At first glance, the spectacular pool terrace looks almost like a natural formation, set organically among the rocks, but its carefully placed fire pits, steam room, and heated therapeutic spa are intentionally designed for those seeking a refined outdoor space. As if that weren’t enough, the owner of Villa Katsura is by default an honored guest of Little Dix Bay Resort, with access to the resort’s gym, tennis courts, hiking trails, and equipment for sailing and snorkeling the Caribbean Sea.

Retreat, Rest, and Rejuvenate at Lake Norman

Jessica Grier and Ben Bowen – Premier Sotheby’s International Realty 

The coastal plains of North Carolina may be known for the sand-strewn barrier islands of its Outer Banks, but some of its most magnificent islands are actually located inland, on the shores of Lake Norman. The area is a hub of natural beauty and biodiversity, despite being just 20 miles north of Charlotte and home to its own thriving scene of boutiques and restaurants.

One of Lake Norman’s most picturesque islands—Merancas Island, located conveniently on the southern shore within 30 minutes of Charlotte—is actually part of a private parcel of land that includes this majestic home. With tropical trails, sculpture gardens, and tennis courts—as well as a two-bedroom guesthouse—it feels like the sort of sanctuary where modern aristocracy would head for a holiday.

But it’s at the water’s edge where this property truly shines, with a launch ramp for kayaks and paddleboards, as well as a covered boat dock—the perfect place to start a day of sightseeing along Lake Norman’s 520-mile shoreline. And for those who’d prefer to stay closer to home, the gazebo dock is an ideal place to dine, recline, and watch the sun go down over the water.

Indulge the Five Star Lifestyle at Dorado Beach

Ricardo Rodriguez and Margaret Pena Juvelier – Puerto Rico Sotheby’s International Realty

As far as island living goes, Puerto Rico’s now-legendary Dorado Beach is the gold standard. Originally demarcated by the noted developer, financier, and conservationist Laurance S. Rockefeller on the site of a former plantation, the area was subsequently fashioned into one of the Caribbean’s premier luxury destinations. Today it sports state-of-the-art amenities while preserving authentic architecture that integrates splendidly with the native palms that surround it.

While most people who vacation at Dorado Beach are visitors, a very fortunate few actually own the exclusive villas in East Beach—an oasis of lush vegetation spanning some 1,400 acres. This home shows how indoor-outdoor living achieves its pinnacle here, with floor-to-ceiling windows creating seamless continuity with the covered patio, barbecue, infinity pool, and hot tub, as well as the nearby golf course just beyond.

Speaking of golf courses, there are two here—and both are accessible to residents of this property, along with all the other amenities of the Ritz-Carlton, which now operates Dorado Beach. That includes a fitness and wellness center, aquatic parks, and fine dining.

A private escape on a personal island property is exceptional, even for those accustomed to luxury experiences. The water is a place of inspiration, exploration, tranquility, and wonder—and to have access to it every day, everywhere, is to have access to a life of true, elevated leisure.

Crave an outdoor lifestyle? See these exceptional properties featuring al fresco dining areas.

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

Hamilton Island, Australia | Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty

With its breathtaking location and a host of lavish features, Element Hill caters to the discerning buyer who seeks nothing but the best.. The home is equipped with eight stunningly appointed bedroom suites, each offering the perfect blend of privacy and comfort. Every suite comes complete with self-contained amenities, ensuring a peaceful retreat for both residents and guests.

This luxury estate presents ample space for relaxation and entertainment with a ush lawn, perfect for hosting events or room to play f. Multiple outdoor entertaining zones create the ideal setting for unforgettable gatherings, whether  intimate soirées or grand celebrations. Three well-appointed chef kitchens offer uninterrupted vistas of the wet-edge pool and the panoramic views that stretch beyond.

For those seeking entertainment and leisure, Element Hill delivers in abundance. Unwind in the dedicated games room, challenge friends and family to a friendly competition, or revel in the joy of creating your very own culinary masterpieces in the outdoor pizza oven. Stay fit and active in the fully equipped gym, allowing you to maintain your wellness routine while enjoying the serene surroundings of Hamilton Island.

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According to local wine country lore, when Samuele Sebastiani immigrated to California from Tuscany, he set about creating a foundation for himself in the area—almost literally, given that his first trade was mining stone used to pave the streets of the fast-growing city of San Francisco. Within a decade, Samuele had purchased land in the rolling hills and valleys to the north, in Sonoma, and began making wine that he sold to area restaurants.

Sonoma, California | Carol Sebastiani, Sotheby’s International Realty – Sonoma Brokerage

More than a century later, Samuele’s legacy lives on in the valley where he first settled, in this elegant yet inviting home owned by his grandson Don. The 4.56-acre site—which includes approximately an acre of its own vineyards—was bequeathed to Don and his wife, Nancy, some five decades ago. Although the Sebastiani family’s origins are clearly in Italy, the residence—with its stone-paved drive, allées, soothing symmetry, neutral palette, spacious forecourt, tall windows, dentil moldings, interior columns and arches, and namesake 13th-century fleur de lys cabochons adorning the entryway—brings to mind a manor in the countryside of France. All these elements serve as elegant reminders that in natural beauty, architecture, and viticultural success, America’s wine country resembles and continues to hold its own against the grande dame of France.

Stately stone, Venetian plaster, and handsome distressed wood unite in interiors of unique stylishness, combining touches of Old World classicism with welcoming modern comfort and convenience. Although the residence begins with a palatial foyer boasting soaring ceilings, two regal stairways with balustraded railings, abundant windows, and a striking decorative floor inlay, much of the 11,89-square-foot floor plan is deliberately designed for gathering of groups large and small. Among the alluring spaces are a living room, a den with fireplace and a full en suite bath, a library with an impressive wall of bookshelves, and a wood-paneled game room with a wet bar. While the chef’s kitchen can tend toward industriousness when desired, it remains charming and convivial with its traditional cabinetry, colorful marble countertops, whimsical La Cornue range backsplash, glorious natural light, and access to the manicured grounds. The adjoining dining room skews formal, with its satin walls, regal wood built-ins, fireplace, and other hints of Parisian aesthetics and can seat up to 20 diners.

For more private, restful moments, the estate offers four bedrooms—one on the main level, and the others perched on the uppermost floor, where they enjoy enviable views of the idyllic surroundings and distant mountains. The owner’s bedroom is spacious enough to feature a sitting area with a fireplace, two baths with stone countertops, two walnut-clad walk-in closets, and a gym and gives way to its own sunny terrace. The basement level is further dedicated to enjoyment, offering tasting rooms, a partial kitchen, and space well-suited for a wine cellar.

Outdoors, an elegant balustraded terrace and a delightful variety of mature trees surround the refreshing swimming pool. Beyond is an assemblage of terraced gardens with august stone stairways, impeccable verdant lawns, and classical fountains. Much of the land not devoted to the residence and its vineyard is level and ideal for the addition of a sports court, garaging for a car collection, or an expansion of an estate that could hardly be more deeply rooted in the history of California wine country.

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Coinciding with the re-opening of the National Portrait Gallery in London on 22 June, and forming part of their Portrait Mode program, this summer Sotheby’s will host a celebration of portraiture with a season of exhibitions and events, complementing the traditional marquee auctions of fine art.

Learn more on Sothebys.com

Cookbook author Claudia Roden’s assertion that “everything tastes better outdoors” is certainly true at these four distinctive homes with alfresco dining spaces. Every meal is accompanied by views of verdant vineyards, majestic mountains, and other idyllic settings.

Modern Elegance in Houston

 Cortney Cole-Hall | Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Inspired in design, this modern six-bedroom home in Houston’s Bellaire community is ideal for peaceful day-to-day living and festive entertaining. A grand entry leads to spaces finished with Venetian plaster walls, walnut floors, cathedral ceilings, and cedar beams. The oversized estate site affords room for a swimming pool and spa, a guesthouse, a sports court, and a covered patio with a summer kitchen and a perfect space for alfresco dining. The numerous contemporary conveniences include an estate-wide generator and a security system.

Sonoma Serenity

 Gina Clyde, Daniel Casabonne | Sotheby’s International Realty – Sonoma Brokerage

Occupying some four acres surrounded by grape vines and mountains, this enchanting wine  country compound boasts a 6,035-square-foot home, an alluring pool and spa, a barn designed for entertaining, and a versatile two-bedroom guesthouse. The main residence offers four bedrooms, an airy open-plan great room, and numerous outdoor living spaces, including an alfresco dining area with stately stone walls that frame a vast view of the pool and verdant vineyards.

Santa Fe Contemporary

 Neil Lyon Group | Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe Brokerage

Northwest of Santa Fe in the exclusive community of Las Campanas, this exemplary 3,600-square-foot contemporary home enjoys singular views that sweep from one mountain range to another. The floor plan features three bedroom suites; an open-concept kitchen, dining area, and living area; a butler’s pantry; a media room; and a two-car garage with electric-vehicle chargers. One of the two covered patios features a built-in grill, a pizza oven, a water feature, and a gas fire pit, making it perfect for gatherings and meals outdoors.

Montecito Magic

 Jason Siemens | Sotheby’s International Realty – Montecito – Coast Village Road Brokerage

This five-bedroom Mediterranean-inspired villa nestled amid the enchanting greenery of the Santa Ynez Valley is a stylish haven in the heart of Montecito. The kitchen opens to a covered outdoor dining area with romantic vine-draped archways giving way to a sitting area with a fire pit tucked beneath a shady tree. The alluringly colorful grounds also offer a bocce court, a pool and spa, and a courtyard with a fireplace, a built-in grill, and additional space for alfresco meals.

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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.

Bonnie Williamson – Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty

Billy Joel is not only celebrated in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, but in the Long Island Music Hall of Fame as well—since it’s in New York’s scenic town of Oyster Bay that he came of age.

Joel wasn’t just raised in Oyster Bay. After his relentless run of hit records, from Piano Man in 1973 to River of Dreams two decades later, the platinum-selling singer-songwriter began purchasing the plots of property in 2002 that would eventually culminate in his waterfront estate on Centre Island. Here’s a look at this landmark home which, thanks to its famous proprietor, has now become a part of modern music history.

Finding Perfect Harmony

Bonnie Williamson – Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty (rendering)

History is woven throughout the fabric of Oyster Bay. The picturesque seaside community is a hub of beautifully-preserved heritage buildings, while also encompassing part of Long Island’s affluent Gold Coast—the expanse of Gilded Era mansions that inspired “The Great Gatsby” and includes such iconic residences as Teddy Roosevelt’s Sagamore Hill.

It’s no surprise that Joel’s estate is in good company with its neighbors, considering that sections of it were first established by a railway magnate in 1914. However, the main house was fully reconstructed in 1994 as an Arts & Crafts mansion, whose elegant brick façades pay faithful homage to the original residence while modernizing it with some 20,000 square feet of living space.

But perhaps this property’s greatest homage to history isn’t its Gold Coast lineage, but its proximity to Hicksville, the Oyster Bay village where the future “Piano Man,” at his mother’s insistence, first tried his hand at the keyboard.

Bonnie Williamson – Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty

Aesthetically, the home reflects its storied past, with fine architectural detailing and thoughtful ornamentation—from the cathedral ceilings to the flooring of marble and hardwood. Yet it also dialogues with its present surroundings, as its bright, neutral interiors create an inherently nautical ambience. 

The primary residence, currently undergoing renovations, features five bedrooms, six full bathrooms, and two powder rooms. And there are plenty of remarkable spaces throughout—such as the indoor pool-turned-music room, where Joel was so inspired by the space’s acoustic resonance that he installed a wood floor to create a custom performance venue.

Striking the Right Chord

Bonnie Williamson – Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty

Appropriately, this home has been dubbed “Middlesea”—a playful paronomasia, since “middle C” is the first note learned by any budding pianist. But the name also alludes to the home’s unique position on an otherwise unoccupied peninsula; it’s surrounded by water on three sides, and nearly all of its windows offer panoramic perspectives spanning from Oyster Bay Harbor to Lloyd Neck. The property also boasts 26 acres of pristine, private parkland that parallels the seaside—unheard of in an area as compact and coveted as Centre Island, where a 10-acre plot has traditionally been considered immense.

Throughout this acreage, mature trees and meandering pathways provide a quintessential East Coast setting, complete with a picturesque gazebo on the grounds, and a pergola-topped dining area alongside the primary residence.

Bonnie Williamson – Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty

Yet the grounds also have secondary residences, each on its own grand scale. The charming gatehouse has four bedrooms, along with a separate three-bedroom apartment. Yet another two-bedroom apartment can be found next to the 4-car garage, connected by the portico to the main estate. But it’s the beach house that stands apart, literally and figuratively; with a soft bed of imported sand on its doorstep, it feels like an escape to The Hamptons, even though the primary residence is located right up the hill.

This all combines to create a dynamic design, where groves and gardens converge with beaches and bays, and houses of different ages and sizes ensure there’s ample space to entertain.

Luxuriating in the Sound

Bonnie Williamson – Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty (rendering)

The amenities spread throughout this property are as impressive as the dwellings themselves. The outdoor pool complements the nautical vibes and coastal views. The capacious wine cellar guarantees the home is well-stocked with all varieties of reds, whites, and rosés. And the colonnaded brick patio is the perfect place to sip them. The two-lane bowling alley further contributes to the home’s inimitable character. Yet it must be said that the standout feature is Long Island Sound itself.

Bonnie Williamson – Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty

With a boat ramp and floating dock just a short stroll from the backdoor, Middlesea is a sailor’s delight. How simple it is to spend a day out on the water. This is the lifestyle that has made Long Island’s Gold Coast such a desirable destination for generations—and Centre Island especially, with the esteemed Seawanhaka Yacht Club just a short distance away.

But on Centre Island, that lifestyle is elevated even higher by the effortless accessibility of Midtown Manhattan, just 40 miles to the west. This estate served Joel well during his widely-acclaimed residency at Madison Square Garden, which will conclude in 2024 after a 10-year tenure.

While there may be many spectacular homes, only a few are in locations as renowned and culturally rich as Oyster Bay—and fewer still have been restored, maintained, and cherished by living legends. In this regard, Middlesea is an exception in every sense and remains one of Long Island’s most captivating estates.

View neighboring homes for sale in the esteemed Centre Island village on Long Island.

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

Cary, North Carolina | Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty

Experience the epitome of luxury living in Cary’s prestigious Renaissance at Regency Estates. Meticulously crafted by a team of acclaimed architects, builders, interior designers, and artisans, this residence stands as one of North Carolina’s most exquisite homes, boasting timeless aesthetics and unrivaled attention to detail.

This dwelling is a masterpiece of intelligent design, featuring cutting-edge smart home technology. With numerous bedroom suites, two fully-equipped kitchens, and an expansive 3,500 square feet entertainment and exercise facility, every aspect of comfort and indulgence has been carefully considered. Adorned with verandas, multi-level terraces, a refreshing saltwater pool, a soothing spa, and breathtaking views of Symphony Lake, this home provides a serene retreat for relaxation and entertainment.

Situated in a prime location, this remarkable property offers convenient access to RDU Airport and Research Triangle Park, ensuring effortless travel and connectivity.

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Few communities so thoroughly exemplify the timeless charm of Cape Cod as Centerville, a quiet village replete with picturesque New England sights. The peaceful residential neighborhoods are dotted with iconic church steeples, delightful early-20th-century shops, docks, and yacht clubs. Steps from grassy dunes, sandy beach, and the rolling waves of Centerville Harbor and Nantucket Sound, this classic multilevel oceanfront residence displays all the hallmarks of regional style—a shingled pitched roof, dormer windows, colorful shutters, beadboard paneling, storybook molding, and vintage-inspired windows—and offers 4,846 square feet of enchanting space crafted precisely and impeccably for living the consummate Cape Cod lifestyle.

Centerville, Massachusetts | Debra Caney, Sotheby’s International Realty – Osterville Brokerage

Photos of the interiors seem destined to appear on scores of “dream beach house” Pinterest boards. The easy, open layout of living room, dining room, and kitchen is perfectly apropos for easygoing waterfront ways, and many windows admit lovely light and offer picturesque views. A stone fireplace provides warmth and coastal character to the living room, which includes a windowed alcove intended for appreciation of the dreamy views. The classical dining room is equipped for meals large and small and gazes out toward the sound, while the impeccably outfitted kitchen encourages culinary pursuits and festive gatherings with its superior-caliber appliances, ample granite counter space, butcher-block-topped island with counter seating, custom cabinetry, whimsical diner-style banquette booth, eye-catching details, and bar area with wine chillers. Each of the four spacious bedroom suites is a restful retreat with a distinctive maritime aesthetic and views of treetops, water, and sky. Wrapped in windows, the primary suite enjoys a lighthouse-like panoramic outlook that includes sand and sea and encompasses a luxurious bath and a carpeted walk-in closet with a sunny window seat. Other welcome highlights include a gym, a single-car garage, central air conditioning, and an outdoor shower.

Outside the doors is an expansive oasis that begins with a wraparound patio. Beyond is a lush emerald lawn bounded by picket fence and manicured hedges; in one corner is space ideal for a garden, while in the other is a hot tub perfect for stargazing amid soothing ocean breezes. A boardwalk leads through native grasses to the alluring beach. Just across the road, the estate’s second parcel—a 0.43-acre waterfront lot—is home to a tennis court. A wood dock provides access to the Centerville River, which flows directly to the harbor, Nantucket Sound, and eventually Martha’s Vineyard, encouraging all manner of nautical escapades—which have always made Cape Cod one of the country’s most desirable destinations.

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From a spectacular contemporary home in Scottsdale, Arizona, to an elegant estate in Calgary, Canada, these are this month’s five featured notable properties for sale over $10 million.

Lecco, Italy

Eugenia Monti Crivelli Visconti | Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

Nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Annone, the villa, originally constructed in the late 19th century, is a breathtaking masterpiece surrounded by a lush four-hectare park. Meticulously restored by its current owner, the estate boasts magnificent oak trees, majestic magnolias, towering cedars from Lebanon, and graceful beech trees.

Denver, Colorado

Ian Wolfe, Chris Bouc | LIV Sotheby’s International Realty

Steeped in history this English Tudor, built in 1932, was originally a wedding gift commissioned by the son of Governor John Evans for his eldest daughter upon her marriage to Hudson Moore. Designed by the prominent architectural firm of Fisher & Fisher, who also designed the Phipps Mansion, this historic mansion has been renovated throughout yet retains many of its original details and classic charm.

Ojai, California

Vicki Leach-Gomez | Vista Sotheby’s International Realty

Embrace ranch living on a magnificent 10-acre horse ranch, just a short stroll from downtown Ojai. Meadow Winds Ranch offers a prime location with access to shopping, dining, the renowned Ojai Valley Inn, and more. What sets it apart is not only its unbeatable proximity to town, but also its tranquil and enchanting atmosphere. Explore biking, walking, and horse riding trails, savor the serenity, and witness breathtaking mountain views and Ojai’s famous “Pink Moment” sunsets.

Stuart, Florida

Gloria Sheridan | ONE Sotheby’s International Realty

Artfully reimagined, this fully renovated home maximizes panoramic views of the Jack Nicklaus golf course, lake, and ocean. With a neutral palette and 166 windows, natural light illuminates exquisite finishes and architectural details. Outdoor living and entertaining are enhanced with three large balconies, four covered patios with a summer kitchen, and an expansive pool deck boasting a 48 ft pool, firepit, two spas, and a separate guest house with a morning bar.

Dallas, Texas

Kyle Richards Cindi Caudle | Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty

Newly constructed and unveiled in the fall of 2020, this exceptional home presents a rare opportunity to reside in Dallas’ most opulent and exclusive new highrise. Elegant 11-foot ceilings and captivating floor-to-ceiling windows provide a front-row seat to breathtaking views of the city and the renowned Dallas Arts District. Each home is thoughtfully crafted with the finest features and finishes, including luxurious Bulthaup kitchen systems, top-of-the-line Gaggenau appliances, polished-chrome fittings by Dornbracht, wide-plank oak floors, Lutron shades, and premium finishes personally curated by the renowned Dallas-based interior designer, Emily Summers.

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