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.
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.
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.
From a US$28.5M sale in Makena, Hawaii to a SG$18.5M sale in Singapore, here are five sales represented by the Sotheby’s International Realty® global network in October.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Guests attend the Dreamscape event held by Hilton Estates Group in June at a $25-million estate in … [+] the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California.
Getty Images for Hilton Estates
Seated around their kitchen island, Barron N. Hilton and Tessa Hilton pop corks on stylish bottles of Casa Del Sol Tequila. The Sherman Oaks, California, couple are investors in the brand, used to enliven estate events they produce.
Barron N. Hilton and Tessa Hilton address a star-studded crowd at their “Goddess Art Show in April … [+] 2022. The event, held at a $39.5-million Bel-Air listing, attracted a crowd of about 300.
Hilton Estates Group
First up: Blanco, with its hints of mint, spice and caramel; Reposado, offering up raisin, honey and tobacco; and, finally, Añejo, with flavors of dark cacao, apricot and chestnut.
“It has a kick near the end,” says Barron, sipping the Añejo. Adds Tessa, his wife of four years, “It’s been so long since I tasted it.”
Nine months to be exact. Tessa Hilton was two weeks away from giving birth to a boy, Caspian, on Sept. 4, giving the parents a matching set; their daughter Milou Alizée is 2 years old.
The dynastic pair―Barron is the scion of Hilton Hotel founder Conrad Hilton and Tessa descends from German nobility―have more birth news: their recent launch of Hilton Estates Group, an avant-garde event production company of sorts that aims to boost profiles of properties that languish on the market. Fueled by their tequila brand, the events are a mix of au courant art, couture, cuisine and name entertainment.
Guests take in the Andy Warhol-inspired art show at the Goddess event.
Rochelle Brodin for Hilton Estates Group
The well-heeled crowd might include a few faces dashed with glitter, a crossdresser or two and, of course, Barron’s older sister, Paris.
In short, the bougie meets boho bashes are crafted to be as unforgettable as they are unconventional, creating a stir in elite real estate circles―drawing eyes and pocketbooks to properties lonely for suitors and that all-important sale.
A stylized flyer for Hilton Estates Group’s “Goddess Art Show’ featuring a portrait of fashion model … [+] Karlie Kloss.
Hilton Estates Group
Such immersive experiences are increasingly employed to rivet eyeballs on high-end estates. In hopes of luring buyers, some properties have starred in short films with five-figure budgets. In Los Angeles, urbane cannabis-themed open houses bake in sales opportunities with each bite of an OG Kush edible.
The Hiltons’ April launch event was held at their colisted property, 419 St. Cloud Road. The $39.5 million mansion is down the block from Ronald and Nancy Reagan’s former home at what was originally 666 St. Cloud Road―the address, considered an ungodly stain for some, was discreetly changed to 668 before the Reagans moved in. The Hiltons are brokers at Hilton & Hyland, which was cofounded in 1993 by Barron’s father, Rick Hilton. Barron is the firm’s Senior Vice President.
Singer Paris Jackson performed at the event, which was billed as the “Goddess Art Show,” with DJ sets mastered by Kim Ann Foxman. The 300 guests gathered on the terrace and grounds of the Georgian home with modernist styling.
The art displayed around the newly built home included “a beautiful sort of Andy Warhol-esque portrait series” created by her father, Tessa says.
Model-DJ Paris Hilton and art photographer Franz von Walderdorff pose in front of Walderdoff’s … [+] portraits at the event held by Casa Del Sol & The Hilton Family.
Rochelle Brodin for Hilton Estates Group
The St. Cloud event was a family affair in additional ways―Barron’s father, Rick, built the new eight-bedroom, 16-bathroom palatial property, and his wife, Kathy Hilton―Barron’s mother―created interiors in collaboration with Nicole Gordon Studio.
Dresses are seen at Dreamscape by Hilton Estates Group in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles.
Getty Images for Hilton Estates
The home’s vast 3,300-square foot terrace was used to display the art, which also included photography by Brian Bowen Smith and Kathyrn Boyd Brolin―husband Josh was in tow. Also present: “politicians, tech CEOS and entrepreneurs,” says Barron, adding that much beyond the Brolins, “we can’t really say who was there but, you know, some big people.”
Post-event, the couple hosted three showings with qualified buyers––not from the highly curated guest list, but from insider circles who caught the post-event buzz. “And then we thought, you know, this can really turn into something where other agents are coming to us,” Barron says.
Enter Hilton & Hyland agents David Kramer and Andrew Buss, whose $25 million listing at 13158 Boca De Canon Lane needed a nudge.
At the Dreamscape event in Brentwood, fashion designer August Getty’s couture gowns are seen … [+] draped on mannequins, including some designed for the Met Gala.
Getty Images for Hilton Estates
The Hiltons trucked in some dazzle: fashion designer August Getty’s couture gowns draped on mannequins, including some designed for the Met Gala. The headliner for the estate bash: Getty’s famed “Million Dollar Dress” encrusted with 500,000 Swarovski crystals, displayed behind glass. Paris Hilton wore the $270,000 gown―its true value making for a lousy name―at the 2017 Hollywood Beauty Awards.
The Dreamscape event featured a performance by singer-actress Rainey Qualley.
Getty Images for Hilton Estates
Singer Rainey Qualley performed for the 170 guests gathered around a stage at the 12,087-square-foot modernist farmhouse home. At one point, the plug was pulled on a riotous light show, plunging the crowd into darkness. Then, a DJ-mastered beat rose to a crescendo, the lights flipped back on and waiters marched out with trays of champagne glasses filled with Boston Market’s newest release: rotisserie chicken nuggets.
“It was weird, but it worked,” says Barron. “It was this big, impactful moment.”
“It was quirky,” adds Tessa.
“It was fun, kind of reminiscent of the Oscars,” Barron says. “They have the In-N-Out or Fatburger truck, and you see everyone in their beautiful suits and gowns eating these juicy cheeseburgers.”
The $39.5 million mansion is down the block from Ronald and Nancy Reagan’s former home.
Anthony Barcelo for Hilton Estates Group
While weaving in such contrast among the classes gets a crowd talking, Barron says the resulting Instagram-ready visuals make for optimal marketing grist―for the properties as well as partner brands, such as Ketel One Vodka.
The Hiltons say the events enliven what can sometimes be a staid profession, affording them a creative outlet.
Barron Hilton and wife Marilyn Hilton on the steps of plane on their way to Houston, Texas.
Bettmann Archive
“We were missing that artistic side, and we need to feed that,” says Barron, a hand on his tattoo-covered right arm. On his wrist: a Rolex watch that belonged to his father, gifted to him after they closed on W. Barron Hilton’s Bel Air home in 2021. “I had always admired it,” Barron says of the watch.
The hotel mogul―Barron Hilton’s namesake grandfather―lived in the Paul R. Williams estate from the 1960s until his death in 2019 at age 91. He is credited for expanding his father’s hotel empire and fortifying the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, now among the world’s largest with assets valued at $8.5 billion.
While Barron’s artistic contribution to the couple’s new enterprise is backed by studies at Loyola Marymount University’s School of Film and Television, Tessa’s was partly honed in Berlin. She lived in the city during a Bard College study-abroad program when she was 19. She received bachelor’s degrees in written arts and French from the school located in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York.
Attracted to the underground music scene, Tessa frequented the trendy Kreuzberg district, which became a counterculture haven after the Berlin Wall fell in 1989. “I started to follow DJs who came from all over Europe,” says Tessa, who formerly worked in fashion. “I’d observe the sound and then worked with different synthesizers in the studio back on campus.”
She frequented the legendary techno nightclub Tresor, part of Kraftwerk, a former 1960s-era power station that hosts exhibitions and events. One morning in the cavernous space, she and others removed shoes and reclined on sleeping cots, covering themselves in silver space blankets to keep warm on that December day.
After the art show event, the couple hosted three showings with qualified buyers who heard about the … [+] Bel-Air property from guests of the party.
Hilton Estates Group
“There would be this sound design installation going on, live with different synthesizers,” she says. “The ceiling seemed to go on for miles. It almost becomes the sky as you listen.”
Tessa says such unconventional Berliner experiences “definitely have an impact” on creating events for the couple’s new Hilton Estates Group. “Obviously, they’re not going to be as trippy. Maybe not yet―maybe down the line. But it’s definitely helped me think outside the more conventional real estate realm.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Since the dawn of time, humans have looked to the night skies in search of something bigger than ourselves. We have sought out direction, greater meaning, and contemplated our place in the universe. Astronomy, astrology, and religion have all been inspired by people who took the time to peer upward and search for the beacons of light softening the infinite darkness.
Tucked away from the largest city centers in areas where the night sky still celestially sparkles, these three homes feature stunning rooms to gaze at the stars and help you ponder life’s mysteries—or simply admire the spectacular views.
In Eastern Cape, South Africa, you can share space with an amazing array of animals in their natural habitats, such as lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and African buffalos. But it’s at night when shimmering views of the Milky Way are revealed —including the “Jewel Box” cluster, regarded as one of the loveliest sights of the southern skies.
Drink in the glorious expanse of the South African skies in this private reserve in Jansenville, which prompted international travel editor Lynette Botha to exclaim, “The stars, oh, the stars! There is definitely a different energy at play here… something supernatural.” This 16,700-hectare, 28-bedroom property comprises three lodges and one camp, all within a 30-minute private charter to the ocean and a 1.5-hour charter to Cape Town. Luxurious touches include multiple swimming pools and fire pits, spa facilities, and seven suites for guests.
On Hawaii’s Big Island, the sea dances with the sky and the sunsets are dreamlike in nature. It’s a reverie that continues into the night, where you’re honored with the privilege of watching for the exhilarating glitter of meteor showers, or spotting the glimmer of the Andromeda galaxy and the Iwakeli‘i and Kalupeakawelo constellations.
Gaze out over the endless horizon at this villa on Anaehoomalu Bay. The second-floor observatory offers views of island mountains, the Alenuihaha channel, and Maui in the distance.When you aren’t looking outward, this home’s seamlessly spacious layout will inspire you to look inward. Soak in the generous outdoor tub set in a private garden setting, float effortlessly in the ocean-view infinity pool, pamper yourself in the private hale, or wander among the fish ponds in this inviting open-plan space.
It takes a hearty, adventurous sort to thrive in Wyoming. After navigating the slopes at the world-class Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, or hiking amongst the raptors and migrating wildlife, the rugged terrain demands a restful evening—one that can be spent aside a telescope, gazing at the Orion Nebula, the Gemini constellation, and the Cassiopeia and Seven Sisters star clusters twinkling above the shadowy contours of mountain peaks.
This modernist Mies-inspired mountain home lies perched atop West Gros Ventre butte, 10 minutes from Jackson. The 5.6-acre property seamlessly integrates with the surrounding natural splendor, and is crafted with sustainable materials and biophilic elements throughout. The home’s great room also functions as an observatory, offering views of the Teton range, Snake River Valley, and expanses of protected ranch lands—all while safely ensconced in the warmth of the wood-burning fireplace. Or head outdoors for more views in the fresh mountain air, as the large north-facing deck is enhanced by infrared heaters, a gas fire pit, and an outdoor kitchen.
Taking the time to consider the expanse above us offers perspective on our own challenges. A home with a dedicated stargazing space nurtures this necessary contemplation. It facilitates transcendence of the whirlwind that is our daily life, encouraging a sense of wonder and possibility. In spaces like these three properties, it is a privilege to be stopped in your tracks by the sheer magnitude of the universe, spread out in a vast and glittering canvas above.
Ranges from brands like Cornue and Lacanche—whose designs recall vintage stoves in French countryside homes—add a dose of Old World charm and craftsmanship to any kitchen.
Overlooking Park Avenue, this elegant four-bedroom corner residence is filled with light and handsome classical finishes. Highlights include a living room with a wood-burning fireplace, a dining area, a south-facing primary suite with ample closets and a lovely windowed bathroom, and a chic open chef’s kitchen with a dual-fuel Lacanche range. The full-service 1921 building, designed by the illustrious Emery Roth, offers door and elevator attendants, a resident superintendent, a fitness center, storage, and a landscaped roof terrace.
On 1.46 acres high above the sea in Santa Barbara, this enchanting 1949 Spanish-style adobe home enjoys dramatic views of the water, sunsets, and the horizon. It features living and entertaining spaces with French doors leading to the idyllic grounds, three bedrooms, two baths, detached guest quarters, a two-car garage, and a chef’s kitchen with a stately La Cornue range. A path leads from the blufftop perch directly to the beach.
This bright, airy home in the desirable village of Gray Gables affords the quintessential Cape Cod living experience beside the waters of Buzzards Bay. It offers three bedrooms, an office, two baths, a living room with a fireplace, a sunroom, a spacious deck for enjoying water and sunset views, and a streamlined kitchen with custom wall-hung walnut cabinetry, quartz countertops, Italian ceramic tile flooring, and a stylish La Cornue range.
On a delightful tree-lined block, this sophisticated 5,921-square-foot townhouse consists of an owner’s triplex, a three-bedroom garden duplex—both with state-of-the-art systems, abundant storage, and central air conditioning—and three private outdoor spaces. The owner’s residence offers six bedrooms, two and one-half luxurious baths, two terraces—including an enviable rooftop retreat—living and dining rooms, a wet bar, and a cook’s kitchen with custom cabinetry and millwork, a lovely La Cornue range, and other top-of-the-line appliances.
Few places present a sense of freedom like the open air. Standing underneath a sweeping sky presents a sense of expansiveness, unboundedness, exhilaration. And while living among the clouds might be nothing more than a flight of fancy, a home can, through its unique location and architecture, capture the all-encompassing sense of peace, possibility, and escape that the wide blue sky promises.
Such a home may be situated on a bluff, on a hilltop, on a mountain, or at the top of an apt-named skyscraper. Or, like this magnificent compound in Charlestown, Rhode Island, it may be set amid private woods and quiet beaches, where there’s nothing to obscure or obstruct the sight lines of the breathtaking horizon, of shooting stars and sunrises. Here are some ways a property can truly take the sky to be its muse.
Eyes to the Skies
Nothing says “celestial” like skylights. Throughout this home, windows of different radiating shapes and dimensions crown the pinnacle of each of the peaked roofs, drawing the eye skyward and fostering a perpetual awareness of the sky’s color and closeness. While flat-paned, traditional skylights also feature above the dining room, it’s the faceted dome ceiling in the living room that showcases the most impressive overhead window.
As Above, So Below
Holistically conceived by a single visionary architect, Soheil Tavakoli, the home uses a variety of materials, and synthesizes motifs from both Persian and Native American aesthetics, to bolster its outward and upward views. Azure accents complement and amplify the skylights—from the tile in the kitchen and bathrooms, to the bas-relief interior window and fountain, to the gorgeous geometric pool on the grounds. It goes to show that the sky is best captured through color.
Days in the Sun
To take inspiration from the sky, a home should indulge indoor-outdoor living to the fullest. This property is a masterclass in how to do that, with its picturesque patio, glass-topped gazebo, and fountains and waterfalls spread across its terraces and gardens. A custom-built yoga platform makes it an ideal space for meditation and contemplation, offering fresh air and fresh perspective.
Endless Horizons
Because the skies are increasingly obscured and obstructed by tall towers, industrial infrastructure, and bright lights, location is crucial—and this property is a perfect cloudspotting and stargazing retreat. What better way to enjoy the serenity of the daytime, or the sublimity of the nighttime, than with a leisurely walk across the nearly twenty acres to the exquisite New England shores? Here, there’s nothing between the land, the ocean, and the sky—an elemental experience that eases the mind, even as it quickens the heart.
Ultimately, this unique Rhode Island compound shows that a home doesn’t necessarily have to be in the sky to be inspired by the sky. Brilliant glass surfaces, compatible tones and hues, and distance from urban light and noise pollution allow a property to create an aesthetic of boundless openness, and lift the spirits of those who live there.
Designed and crafted to meticulous standards, this distinguished 6.2 acre compound is surrounded by captivating, protected vistas far and wide. In the enduring tradition of the regions’s iconic estates, this extraordinary residence is a place for living life to the fullest, providing an endless source of enjoyment in exquisite indoor/outdoor spaces.
Fine millwork and nine fireplaces underscore the comfortably elegant environment. Rooms for relaxation include a lower-level entertainment (media) room, a wine cellar, and a fitness studio. Wraparound tiered terraces feature a pool and a pool house. Glorious terraced gardens and formal gardens with fountain create a splendid backdrop for the estate. A separate three-bedroom guest house completes the property.
