Tag: Luxury

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

Innisfil, Canada | Gladys Montgomery, Herb Butzke, William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty

Privately set on 104 acres surrounded by hundreds of acres of protected land and located just two miles outside a charming country village, this expansive property offers generous spaces for entertaining and cozy spots for relaxation, quiet conversation, and daydreaming.

Originally built by a local farming family, the house was purchased in the early 1920s by William Bullitt, the U.S. Ambassador to Russia and France, who used it as a summer retreat. The Bullitt Estate comprises a circa 1811 Federal farmhouse to which a European-style great room and additional living quarters were added in the 1920s. A renovated mid-1800s barn and garage, a new post-and-beam carriage house, a 1920s-era three car garage, a new stone cottage with beamed interior and fireplace, and a small post and beam livestock barn with pasture complete the compound.

Meticulously restored and revamped by its current owners—singer-songwriter Ray LaMontagne and his wife, poet Sarah Sousa—the compound now encompasses a main residence comprising five bedrooms, five baths, and nearly 11,000 square feet and several other structures, each with radiant heat and well-appointed interiors, suitable for myriad hobbies and pastimes, whether they be antique cars, gardening, or horses.

Taken together, the 438 acres of conserved open land and forests surrounding the estate provide unparalleled protection and privacy, as well as miles of walking trails and access to Chapel Falls Brook and Pony Mountain. Consequently, the Bullitt Estate is a place where one can truly be immersed in nature.

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Just blocks from the lush expanse of San Francisco’s historic Presidio, exclusive Presidio Terrace is a rarity in a city known for singularities—a miniature master-planned community named for its single privately owned street. In 1905, construction began along this pleasant elliptical cul-de-sac, which features 36 magnificent properties in a variety of architectural styles, from Beaux-Arts and Italian Renaissance to Mission and Tudor Revival. This grande dame was built not long after the neighborhood was christened, in 1909, and while a comprehensive renovation afforded top-tier modern systems, it also polished the lovingly maintained period details, allowing the home to retain an atmosphere of bygone elegance and grace.

San Francisco, California | Neill Bassi, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

The home’s generously scaled spaces, spanning four levels, are flooded with natural light from oversized windows and accompanied by gloriously colorful backyard gardens. Throughout, the sophisticated palette ranges from soothingly light to richer grounding hues, creating a variety of moods and settings with aesthetics that are at times chicly contemporary, at others consummately classical.

Stately columns, ornamental leaded glass, inlaid marble floors, richly hued hardwoods, ornate ironwork, thoughtful built-ins, and numerous fireplaces contribute to a dignified air in the library as well as the formal living and dining rooms. These regal areas accompany a bright, thoroughly modern kitchen, which boasts a Viking gas range, two wall ovens, and two dishwashers—all clad in professional-caliber stainless steel. A comfortable family room that encourages relaxed contemporary living opens through two sets of French doors to an enviable rear terrace perched above the backyard and linked with it via a discreet set of stairs.

The primary suite is a secluded second-level aerie overlooking these vibrant gardens. Completing the lavish retreat are three walk-in closets and a bath with a soaking tub and a step-in shower. Two additional bedrooms—joined by a shared bath with dual sinks, a shower, and a tub—benefit from their own generous closet space. Visitors will appreciate the inclusion of a second indulgent suite with its own luxurious bath, a large walk-in closet, and a leafy outlook.

The home’s uppermost level offers a gym, a contemplative office, a bedroom with a desk alcove in a dormer window and a dry bar—making this an ideal locale for an au pair or in-law—a bath, and a second family room with built-in shelves. The lower level is dedicated to casual diversion with its well-equipped media room; inviting tasting area just outside a temperature-controlled wine room with an impressive capacity; and versatile oversized garage capable of housing multiple cars while also providing space for storage, hobbies, and other creative or athletic pursuits. The exceedingly private guest bedroom on this level is a quiet, sun-washed space with access to the alluring gardens. With their flourishing roses, stretches of emerald lawn, and serene Japanese-inspired meditation and koi pond, the courtyard is yet another rarity, an idyllic oasis in one of the world’s most bustling cities.

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Showcasing the height of new luxury construction in some of the world’s most sought after locations, explore an exclusive new development from our worldwide network.
Austin, Texas | Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty

Tucked into one of the city’s most adored neighborhoods, Sixth&Blanco is the first and only mixed-use concept of its caliber in Austin. Every extension of Sixth&Blanco has been thoroughly considered to the most discerning detail, resulting in premier retail and restaurants on the first and second floors, a bespoke hotel on the third floor, and breathtaking homes on the fourth and fifth floors. Designed by Pritzker award-winning Swiss architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron, and curated and operated by renowned hospitality team MML, Sixth&Blanco is certain to become a landmark destination that joins world-class experiences, service, and design.

The ten meticulously appointed homes at Sixth&Blanco offer a refined urban living experience. Standout features include private terraces, soaring timber ceilings, and an intimate cocktail pool. Each home extends a rare opportunity to take up residence within a piece of city-defining architecture while enjoying access to exceptional amenities.

Highly curated specialty retail and restaurants span the first and second floors, accompanied by immaculately landscaped common areas and inviting terraces with views of mature trees and downtown Austin. The breezy, verdant spaces support a pedestrian network that brings a human scale and sense of domestic comfort to the space.

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Images Credit: Herzog & de Meuron 

With their striking streamlined designs, 20th-century luminaries from Frank Lloyd Wright to Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Philip Johnson solidified modernist style in the architectural realm. Their influence persists in these homes, artful settings for contemporary living that feature clean lines, light-filled spaces, and a relationship with their surroundings.

Modern Majesty in the Marina District

Gregg Lynn | Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

Re-imagined and rebuilt, this modern three-bedroom San Francisco home is unrivaled for its luxury, efficiency, and comfort. It features a living area with a sound system and a gas fireplace; a kitchen with a La Cornue range; a dining room overlooking the chic backyard garden; a rooftop deck; a wine cellar; a lower-level guest suite; and a garage with a pair of Tesla Powerwalls. A Control4 system manages climate, lighting, blinds, audiovisual equipment, security, and fireplaces.

Stylish Texas Showplace

Kingshill Martini Group | Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Surrounded by 1.8 lush acres in the Stallion Lakes community, 40 miles outside Houston, this 6,595-square-foot four-bedroom residence exemplifies refined modern living. Sophisticated entertaining is effortless thanks to spaces with thoughtfully chosen fixtures and finishes: a dramatic double-height living room, a formal dining room, an impressively outfitted kitchen with a breakfast room and two pantries, a game room, a media room, and a covered outdoor living area featuring a summer kitchen and views of the refreshing pool and spa.

Light-Filled California Luxury

 Neyshia Go | Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage

Contemporary lines, soaring ceilings, and a minimalist palette are hallmarks of this light-flooded six-bedroom home on a promontory in Calabasas. Among the alluring spaces are a dining room with a full-size wine chiller, a theater, a game room, a library, a study, a gym, and a chef’s kitchen with a butler’s pantry, an oversized island, and stainless-steel Gaggenau and Thermador appliances. Perfect for California’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle, the backyard offers grassy lawn, an infinity-edge pool and spa, a fire pit, and an alfresco kitchen and bar.

Santa Fe Sophistication

 Britt Klein | Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe Brokerage

On a five-acre lot in Santa Fe’s wooded Wilderness Gate neighborhood, this striking three-bedroom residence combines sophisticated modern design, powerful architecture, and the inherent warmth of Santa Fe style. Highlights include an open-concept living and dining room; a wet bar with a wine chiller; a spacious, well-outfitted kitchen; a portal with a grilling area, a fireplace, and vast views of mountains, city lights, and sunsets; and a rare resort-caliber diving pool and spa.

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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 Anywhere Real Estate Inc. (NYSE: HOUS), 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.

Guy Bradshaw – United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty 

For many, a home overseas represents the essence of opulence and the hallmark of success. So it’s not a surprise that among society’s most affluent, so much of their collective wealth exists as real estate.

This trend is particularly prominent in the US—in 2022 alone, the number of overseas properties owned by Americans increased by 20%. Holding real estate abroad clearly has significant appeal for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, and here are six of the top considerations driving the demand.

1. Investment Opportunities

Guy Bradshaw – United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty 

For the ultra-wealthy, real estate consistently ranks as a preferred opportunity for investment. When there’s a chance to own a covetable property in a highly desirable market—such as this Knightsbridge apartment right on the border of Belgravia, just a few blocks away from Harrods—they seize it. With period architecture, contemporary infrastructure, and a prime London location, this type of residence is an auspicious asset for a world-class portfolio.

2. An Insatiable Wanderlust

Elena Babé – Madrid Sotheby’s International Realty 

Other affluent Americans simply love to travel to the cultural centers that offer the best of everything—exquisite architecture, beautiful weather, and astonishing history. Owning a home in these enviable locales enables them to visit and vacation as often as desired. It’s a convenient way to ensure they can attend all their favorite events, from festivals to fashion weeks. Madrid is a perfect example—especially this property that boasts Parque del Buen Retiro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as its own backyard.

3. Obtaining Dual Citizenship

Agnes Pinaire – Propriétés Parisiennes Sotheby’s International Realty

Some luxury consumers aspire to own properties that let them live overseas longer term. As such, obtaining a second passport or dual citizenship through employment or family connections remains a high ideal for a sizable portion of high-net-worth individuals. Whoever is fortunate enough to acquire a house like this one, which provides a country estate lifestyle in the midst of Paris’s metropolitan splendor, would likely want to enjoy it for months at a time.

4. The Golden Visa Program

Macarena Osorno – Portugal Sotheby’s International Realty 

Many globally minded affluents unable to procure a second passport through work or birthright are motivated to take advantage of the Golden Visa program.  This initiative awards permanent residency, or sometimes full citizenship, to those who make a major donation or investment in a given country. That means with the right financial incentives, the buyer of a property like this visionary retreat in Lisbon—which features a modern villa built on century-old foundations—could be granted a streamlined path to residency in Portugal.

5. A Luxe European Lifestyle

Christina Lofsten – Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty 

There are a lot of affluent Americans who are enamored with European cities—exciting and enriching, yet also accommodating spaces of quaint, quiet calm. That’s why they’re drawn to a bucolic escape like this dwelling, both verdant and vibrant, located on the cusp of the bustling archipelago that is Stockholm.

6. New Horizons to Explore

Veniz Kwong – List Sotheby’s International Realty 

There are other Americans, notably the younger generation, who are setting their sights on emerging markets in areas of Asia and Central America—both as savvy investments in their own real estate portfolios and as gateways to new ventures, voyages, and cultural exchanges. That’s why a place like Singapore, and this inspiring condo near the iconic Orchard Road, is such an inviting prospect for these buyers. By having a home base here, the rest of Asia and the Pacific, in all their diverse and dynamic possibilities, are a short flight away.

With these six reasons, it’s no wonder that affluent Americans are eager to expand their holdings to other cities and countries. These properties pay dividends not only as appreciating assets, but as destinations that never cease to amaze.

Considering cautiously dipping a gold-ringed toe in the waters of luxury property ownership before making the plunge? Explore these stunning rental properties.