August 2018 - Beacon Sotheby's International Realty

Private Paradise | What Island Life is Like

Refreshed, relaxed, reinvigorated: the feelings that tend to accompany the end of an island retreat. But why save the island experience for fleeting vacations that can feel all too short? Life on an island is always enjoyed in the moment and to the fullest. From sun to sand to the stress-free pace of life, there are many reasons for booking a permanent stay.

A View for Tired Eyes

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada | Glynis MacLeod, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

No matter north or south, few geographic locales can match the stunning natural environment of an island. Nestled into a dramatic cape surrounded by lush forests of cedar, Douglas fir, and spruce, this home on Canada’s West Coast scores high marks for its stunning vistas: walls of glass look out onto unobstructed views of the rolling mountains of Mount Baker and the San Juan Islands, and a spacious rear patio backs out onto 300 linear feet of ocean frontage. Whether you’re an up-for-anything adventurer or an indoorsy nester, this slice of island life could easily be your next paradise.

Bel Ombre, Mauritius | Manesha Soneea, Mauritius Sotheby’s International Realty

A marvelous Mauritius villa tucked into a cozy island corner offers a decidedly more tropical backdrop. Walls of foliage create a sheltered private refuge, while both the indoor and outdoor spaces are designed to maximize views of the paradisal surroundings. An expansive terrace and sizable plunge pool overlooks swaths of abundant vegetation with the Indian Ocean in the distance.

A Beach to Come Home To

Abaco, Bahamas | Christopher Albury, Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty

Untouched beaches are another one of island living’s primary calling cards. With powder-soft sands set against some of the most vibrant turquoise waters on the planet, when it comes to beaches, Bahamian islands are some of the world’s best. This enchanting 20-acre private island located on the Sea of Abaco enjoys a secluded cove, perfect for snorkeling the crystal waters or sinking into a hammock amidst breezy palms.

Anahola, Hawaii | Danette Andrews, Oceanfront Sotheby’s International Realt y

Changing oceans from the Atlantic to the Pacific leads the shores of this Hawaii beach hous e situated on the northeast coast of the island. Whale watch from the comfort of your own living room, kitchen, or master bathroom, each boasting views spanning Anahola Bay and Kahala Point up the length of Aliomanu Beach. A 50-foot pool on an ocean-facing patio, steps from a private beach, ensures that whatever your method of relaxation, shoreline views are practically always in focus.

Bask in the Calm

Ghajnsielem, Malta | Ian Pace, Malta Sotheby’s International Realty

A chance to set your clock to the unhurried pace of island time is a principal reason for putting down permanent roots. For a truly tranquil experience, travel back centuries at this rural Gozo idyll, located in one of the world’s smallest and most archaeologically-rich countries. House of Character offers a rare opportunity to acquire a portfolio of 25 traditional houses in Malta, an archipelago steeped in history in the Mediterranean Sea. Memories of a bygone era are instilled in stone walls and fireplaces, while sun-drenched patios overlooking rolling countryside call for long, leisurely meals in the sun.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain | Alejandra Vanoli, Mallorca Sotheby’s International Realty

Cross the Tyrrhenian Sea and you’ll find another magnificent and historic property among the Balearic Islands in Spain. Built in the 15th century, old-world touches abound at this Spanish country house, including exposed beams and a stone façade, while charming gardens, abundant olive groves, and sunny terraces offer plenty of inspiration for wanderings and reclining. With 14 bedrooms across several main buildings, this comfortable restoration is the perfect place to host extended island stays.

Sunsets Worth Staying For

Mykonos, Greece | George Kasimis, Greece Sotheby’s International Realty

Surrounded by water, island homes often gain unfettered access to the best sunsets on the planet. There are few places on the globe where magic hour is more memorizing than Mykonos, and this spellbinding villa gets a front-row seat to Mother Nature’s most brilliant display. The aptly-named White Vista stands in striking contrast to the bright blue of the Aegean Sea during the day, while at dusk becomes a mirror for the pooling gold and pinks of the sunset.

Life on an island is all about being present. From adventure to downtime, it’s easy to enjoy the stress-free pace by making the islands your permanent home.

Living History | Own a Converted 40-Room Hotel in Jerome, Arizona

Built at the height of copper mining in Arizona by magnate James “Rawhide Jimmy” Douglas in 1919, the former Little Daisy Hotel has been converted into an astounding mansion.

Jerome, Arizona | Donna Chesler, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty

When Lisa Acker and her late husband Walter decided to purchase the property in 1995, it wasn’t much more than a concrete husk of its former glory. As recently reported in Bloomberg, “by the mid-1950s, the mining economy in Jerome collapsed, and the hotel fell into disrepair, along with the rest of the area.”

“They sold all the windows and doors, even the tile roof. Everything was sold for salvage, and people just walked off with whatever they didn’t strip.” – Lisa Acker

Prior to the Acker’s purchase, the property’s ownership passed into the hands of atomic clock developer, William Earl Bell in 1969 as part of a massive deal encompassing adjacent land.

Brought back to life by master craftspeople over nine years, the sprawling home is set on nearly three-and-one-half acres and offers over 12,000 square-feet of temperature-controlled living space, 2,900 square-feet of interior porches, 2,600 square-feet of garage/workshop, and 9,000 square-feet of rooftop gardens.

Once comprising 40 rooms during its days as a mining hotel hotspot, the private residence now features every modern amenity but steeped in old world charm.

Incredible views of the entire Verde Valley, Cleopatra Hill, and Jerome provide the perfect backdrop for an experience of a lifetime at The Little Daisy.

Search for your next extraordinary home here.

The ABCs of Real Estate

From listed to sold, selling and buying a home can be an exasperating task, especially for first-timers. Before you list your home or begin your search, get the real estate lingo down. The ABCs of Real Estate defines terms you will most likely hear throughout your transaction. This basic prep will make sure nothing confuses or surprises you.

And if you really want to be prepared for buying or selling a home, make sure your team is locked down – including working with a trustworthy real estate professional.

Clean Living | 6 Eco-Conscious Waterfront Homes

Strong design is a delicate balance of form and function. Homes need to reflect more than just our aesthetic principles—they need to suit our values as well. As global concern for climate change grows, so do the number of “green” homes on the market. The challenge becomes finding an environmentally conscious home where the luxury experience is not lost. Here are six eco-homes that manage to be both mindful and magnificent.

History Meets Future on Ionian Islands, Greece

Savvas Savvaidis, Greece Sotheby’s International Realty

Having played host to several mythic odyssey’s, the town of Corfu sets the stage for this Emerald Bay estate. Celebrating traditional Grecian architecture while incorporating eco-friendly amenities, this home makes the case for considered design and a minimized environmental footprint. Jet out on the Ionian Sea from your private mooring, or cool off with a dip in the infinity pool perfectly tempered by solar panels. It only takes one glance at this tranquil sea to realize this address is the crowning jewel of the Ionian coastline.

Thoughtful Living in Oeiras, Lisbon

Paula Penim, Portugal Sotheby’s International Realty

Energy from the Oeiras sun is used to power this arty oceanfront villa. Complete with mid-century modern wood paneling throughout the home, its thoughtful detailing is continued beyond its interiors—solar panels provide a clean source of energy to assist in powering this home’s four bedrooms and seven bathrooms, in addition to providing heat for both outdoor and indoor pools. Spend your days reclining by the pool overlooking the Atlantic, or take your journey further inland to explore the region’s many blue and green spaces, including the sandy beaches of Paço de Arcos and Praia da Torre.

Finding Zen in Limestone Bay, Anguilla

Scott Hauser, Anguilla Properties Sotheby’s International Realty

Find paradise at this airy Anguillan abode that pairs palace-like grandeur with modern eco-sensibilities. Regal columns and carved balustrades overlooking the Caribbean Sea create a scene fit for the silver screen, while overhead solar panels pull in energy from the Anguillan rays to power a heated pool in the home’s zen garden. Views are not lost on the home’s well-appointed four bedrooms and spacious living area, each producing vivid-hued views of the Technicolor waters—higher definition than any television.

Lakeside Living in Six Mile, South Carolina

Justin Winter, Justin Winter Sotheby’s International Realty

Time-honored materials and modern technologies are what make this South Carolina lake house eco-conscious. Situated on Lake Keowee, this property is dressed in natural materials including limestone and slate, while repurposed accents like a wrought iron door salvaged from Argentina add to the home’s sustainability. The home’s eco-friendly architectural features are further underscored by its use of geothermal, solar thermal, and solar photovoltaic technologies to reduce its energy demand, as well as a rainwater system for landscape irrigation.

Cerulean Caribbean Vistas in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

Nina Siegenthaler & Joe Zahm, Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty

No matter which window you gaze out of, the views from this Turks and Caicos villa are nothing short of spectacular. Tucked into a hillside in Turtle Tail, enjoy Caribbean living at its fullest surrounded by vibrant-hued turquoise waters that appear simply surreal. Solar panels heat and pump a private lagoon pool mimicking the variants of blue from the ocean, while a backup generator and 500-gallon propane tank are on site for all eventualities. Ideal for entertaining, this serene home ensures all of your guests can retreat to their private quarters complete with their very own ocean vista.

River Views in New South Wales, Australia

Rick Nolasco & Daphne Sauvage, Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty

Two properties comprise this New South Wales waterfront addres s. With its covetable location on the Hawkesbury River, Sunny Corner boasts 180-degree views of idyllic waterfront and stunning hillside. Designed to facilitate an active life on the water, this Australian escape ensures you can venture out in your own pontoon, or stay closer to shore and enjoy kayaking, water skiing, and fishing from your secluded retreat. Shining when it comes to sustainability, this home utilizes solar panels to reduce environmental impact and heat all water on site.

When it comes to helping the planet, small choices can make a big difference. Whether you’re considering alternative energies or recycling your rainwater, choosing a home with eco features can make the work of living lightly that much easier.

A Sunday in Lisbon

Sundays are sacred. Whether you spend the day exploring local art and architecture, browsing market stops, or indulging in culinary delights, there’s no denying the seventh and final day of the week is reserved for discovery as a ritual. This Sunday, we explore the best of Lisbon.

From cobblestone laneways winding up hills topped with cheerfully-colored Art Nouveau buildings to the sounds of sweet fado floating out from quaint cafés, the charm is certainly not in short supply in Portugal’s seaside capital. One of the oldest cities in the world—predating Paris and Rome—Lisbon is experiencing something of a modern renaissance in the realms of food, art, and culture. Here, how to spend the perfect Sunday soaking it all in.

Jose Gorjao, Portugal Sotheby’s International Realty

For a superlative Lisbon experience, wake up in a contemporary flat in the historic Campo de Ourique neighborhood, a district that is the last stop for tram 28, a popular scenic route for seeing the best of the city. Close to restaurants and the Jardim da Parada, this four-bedroom modern home captures every bit of coastal light in premium finishings: natural woods, bright whites, herringbone washroom tiles, angled ceilings, and a sunny terrace accessed via a floor-to-ceiling sliding door.

Morning

After a trip spent indulging in Portugal’s famed Pastéis de Nata egg tarts, there’s no better place to reset than local café Amélia, where you can tuck into an energizing breakfast of poached eggs, avocado toast with red hummus, or buckwheat pancakes.

Basilica da Estrela, photo courtesy of Takashi Images / Shutterstock Inc

Grab a street galão (the Portuguese answer to a latté) to go, and saunter down Rua Domingos Sequeira to bask in the Baroque architecture at the Basílica da Estrela, one of Lisbon’s most striking monuments. Designed in 1790, this church features one of the country’s largest nativity scenes, with over 500 terracotta and cork images. Pay the fare to climb to the basilica’s terrace for prime views of the city’s ornamented Manueline architecture, or spend some time across the way in the Jardim da Estrela.

Campo de Ourique market, photo courtesy of Radu Bercan/ Shutterstock Inc

After working up an appetite, take a short stroll north to explore the fare at the historic Mercado de Campo de Ourique, the market a fixture in the neighborhood since 1934. A recent refurbishment project has provided the market a chic set of modern amenities, and when it comes time for lunch, locals are spoiled for choice. Petiscos (small plates) are an integral part of Portugal’s gastronomy and, much like their Spanish tapas counterparts, are best enjoyed with friends. Share iconic Lisbon dishes like eggs with Portuguese sausage, clams à Bulhão Pato, and mussels. Other local lunch favorites include Fiammetta—think regional wines and paninis teeming with freshly imported Italian cheeses, prosciuttos, and artisan salamis—and Tasca da Esquina, where chef Vitor Sobral is offering avant-garde takes on classic Portuguese dishes.

Afternoon

Livraria Ler Devagar bookshop, photo courtesy of Zabotnova Inna / Shutterstock Inc

Though a soothing cochilo may sound appealing after lunch, there’s no time for napping with some of the city’s best shopping around the corner. The shopping scene in the Campo de Ourique is as wide and varied as its food market: here you’ll find cheerful beachwear at Futah and luxury tailoring at Alphaiate, with colorful bookstores and contemporary home goods sprinkled in between.

Campo de Ourique, photo courtesy of studio f22 ricardo rocha / Shutterstock Inc

Don’t forget to stop for exquisite cheeses at Maître Renard and textiles at Carmim d’Ourique or Nomalism.

Evening

Peixaria da Esquina, photo courtesy of Peixaria da Esquina

Seafood is an inextricable part of Lisbon life. With such close proximity to the Atlantic, the city offers some of the best seafood in Europe. When it comes time for dinner, cozy up to another Vitor Sobral establishment, Peixaria da Esquina, for masterfully-executed classics like shrimp mango coconut and poejos. Even more traditional, the menu at O Magano hits all the high notes of traditional, hearty Portuguese dishes. After dinner, take a short stroll down the street to join locals for a cocktail at A Paródia, one of the older bars in the city.

No matter which way the ocean breeze steers you, a Sunday in Lisbon provides a sea of options. In a city with this many appealing surprises, it’s hard to go wrong.

Sotheby’s | Robin Williams at Home

From groundbreaking stand-up comedy to beloved performances in movies such as Mrs. Doubtfire and Good Will Hunting, Robin Williams captivated audiences for decades.

This October, Sotheby’s will offer works from the personal collection of the iconic entertainer and his wife of over 20 years, film producer and philanthropist Marsha Garces Williams. Creating a Stage: The Collection of Marsha and Robin Williams will feature memorabilia, timepieces, bicycles, as well as contemporary art. Highlights include sculpture by Niki de Saint-Phalle and street art by Banksy.

Franck Muller | A Fine White Gold Tonneau-Form Minute Repeating Tourbillon Wristwatch Ref 6850 Rmt No 06 Imperial Tourbillon Minute Repeater Circa, 1998 | Estimate $25,000 — $35,000 USD

A portion of the proceeds from the auction will benefit organizations championed by both Marsha and Robin, including The Juilliard School, Wounded Warrior Project, the Challenged Athletes Foundation, and the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation.

RESIDE | Living the High Life

Opting for vertical living has long involved tradeoffs: services versus square footage, turnkey versus autonomy, convenience versus community. But with highly equipped, low-density condominium towers, buyers no longer have to compromise: Distinctive architecture, oversized residences, and ultra-luxe services are turning high-rise structures into high-net-worth communities, with amenities fostering social interaction and a sense of place among affluent neighbors.

NAPLES, FLORIDA, US

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

Located just steps from the beach, Mystique is one of the last new ultra-luxury high-rise developments in the exclusive Pelican Bay enclave. Created for those who appreciate exquisite design, luxurious appointments, and technological innovation, Mystique offers 68 estates and four penthouses with expansive living spaces and terrace views toward the Gulf from most units. Residents will enjoy the amenities of Pelican Bay, including private beach access with beachfront dining.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, US

Art Collazo & Peter Angelo, Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty

Located in the vibrant River North district, the 15-story Bentham combines the privacy and comfort of a boutique building with the deluxe amenities of a larger, prestigious high-rise. It enjoys both prime views and location, as it stands at the crossroads of the best Chicago has to offer–bustling nightlife at Rush and Division streets, premier shopping on the Magnificent Mile and upscale boutiques and dining on the Gold Coast. Each unit features modern indoor-outdoor living and floor-to-ceiling windows, with access to the rooftop, with its pool, sun deck and fire pits, large fitness center and community room with a catering kitchen.

MUSCAT BAY, OMAN

Gulf Sotheby’s International Realty

Discover a life of carefree bliss in a five-bedroom grand hilltop villa with sweeping, uninterrupted panoramic views across Muscat Bay and the Gulf of Oman. Located on the mountainside adjacent to the Jumeirah Resort Hotel and built on private plots with landscaped gardens of indigenous mountain plants, these regal residences are part of a gated community. They are designed to be at one with the land and offer a life less ordinary, filled with peace and seclusion, in a place of majesty and charm.

Click to see additional properties from this story and more of RESIDE Magazine

August in West Michigan: What to Do

It’s officially August (we can’t believe it, either) but that doesn’t mean the summer is over. In fact, it’s far from it! Take advantage of the remaining sunny summer days with some great West Michigan events.