From a sprawling ranch in Texas to a remarkable countryside villa in Tuscany, this edition of Significant Sales also showcases homes from the United States and Australia.
Category: Distinctive Destinations
A Sunday in Toronto
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 Toronto.
Elegant brick homes, lush gardens, and old-world charm can all be found in the center of Toronto. Known for its distinctive tower and the critically acclaimed, star-studded Toronto International Film Festival, the city holds the top spot as Canada’s most populated metropolitan hub. The Annex and Yorkville neighborhoods, home to families and students alike, are bursting with some of the best international cuisine, cultural institutions, and boutique shopping the city has to offer. Take your cues from the locals and spend a perfect Sunday wandering Toronto’s streets.
Sotheby’s International Realty Canada
For an iconic Toronto experience, wake up in one of the spacious brick homes that make the area so idyllic. This restored “Annex Style” home on Madison Avenue features a large covered entry and a formal living room, complete with gas fireplace, antique wood mantle, and marble surround. Start off by preparing a coffee in the state-of-the-art kitchen and step out into the private courtyard for a moment of tranquility before heading out into the bustling city streets.
Morning
Café Boulud, photo courtesy of Café Boulud
When it’s time to sally forth, you’ll be right in the thick of things. Venture to the Four Seasons for breakfast at Café Boulud, where chef Daniel Boulud serves up seasonal dishes in the French tradition. Drift down to Bloor, where Hermès, Gucci, and Burberry await and pop into altheisure label Kit and Ace for a flat white from Sorry Coffee Co. For boutique shopping, there’s Corbò Studio with its edited collection including J Brand and Diane von Furstenberg, and Montréal family business ça va de soi for reinvented knitwear.
Sorry Coffee Co, photo courtesy of Kit and Ace
When you’ve wrapped up your browsing, take the half-hour walk to Casa Loma, a castle in the heart of the city. Built in 1911 by businessman Sir Henry Mill Pellatt, the castle was dreamt up as a private home before financial difficulties plagued Sir Pellatt and the city took ownership in 1933. Now open to the public, Casa Loma offers visitors the chance to wander the grand 98-room castle and its surrounding gardens.
Casa Loma, photo courtesy of Ken Felepchuk / Shutterstock Inc
Having had your morning fill of history, turn your thoughts to food. For lunch, there’s Kasa Moto, with its notable sashimi and nigiri, or well-crafted bites at Chabrol for those in search of pork liver mousse and apple tarts.
Chabrol Restaurant, photo courtesy of Chabrol
Midday constitutionals can be had in nearby Queen’s Park, where Ontario’s government buildings take pride of place alongside the stately architecture of the University of Toronto’s downtown campus.
Afternoon
Royal Ontario Museum, photo courtesy of Javen / Shutterstock Inc
Start your afternoon with a visit to the Royal Ontario Museum. The country’s most-visited museum, the ROM has an extensive collection of natural historical artifacts from Canada and around the world. Or dash across the street to the smaller Gardiner Museum, where a focus on clay works is punctuated by special exhibitions, lectures, classes, and an in-house artisanal gift shop.
Bay Reyna, photo courtesy of Bar Reyna, photo by Ryan Emberley
Needless to say, it’s easy to spend hours with art, but be sure to give yourself a much-needed pause for a late-afternoon cocktail at nearby Bar Reyna, where classics like the Negroni share the menu with inventive updates like the Basil Cognac-O-Lada.
Evening
Blu Ristorante, photo courtesy of Blu
No evening in Toronto is complete without a visit to the Royal Conservatory of Music. An acclaimed educational institute, the Conservatory also offers a full calendar of concerts and performances in the contemporary Koerner Hall. After you’ve been inspired by the musical stylings of some of the world’s best performers, satiate your appetite at Blu, named one of Canada’s 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in 2018. The intimate atmosphere, live piano music, and extensive wine lists are matched only by the delicious, award-winning food—a perfect way to cap off a day of purposeful wandering.
No matter where your Sunday takes you, Toronto is sure to offer up cultural and culinary delights, leaving you looking forward to your next weekend in Canada’s star central city.
If your Toronto visit turns into a lifelong love, find your permanent residence from among these elegant homes, and ensure that the best of the city is always at your doorstep.
Distinctive Destinations: Welcome to the Greater Boston Area
It’s no secret that Greater Boston is home to one of the densest and most diverse real estate markets in New England and beyond, with varying market trends and distinct differences between surrounding towns and neighborhoods. Although the real estate market is certainly competitive, there continues to be a significant amount of activity in the Greater Boston area and there are plenty of opportunities for buyers and sellers.
Residents flock to the Greater Boston area for several reasons, but a few key traits stand out. Boston is home to some of the most prestigious and advanced medical facilities in the world, as well as being home to exceptional universities and other educational institutions. The Boston area is also known for housing some of the highest ranked towns in which to live, including Newton and Brookline. Boston’s small-town, historical feel and thriving sports culture are also attractive features.
The Sotheby’s International Realty affiliate in Greater Boston, Unlimited Sotheby’s International Realty, has three offices as a central hub for their surrounding communities, offering premier, highly-visible locations. Take a look at some of their listings below!
NEWTON, MA – 24 Botsford Road
$2,199,000 | 4 Beds, 5.5 Baths
Listing Agent: Aurel Garban, 617.875.1914, aurel.garban@unlimitedsir.com
Beautiful new construction in Newton’s Chestnut Hill! Features include a finished lower level with a full bathroom, storage room, and a two car garage. Easy access to the Chestnut Hill Mall, The Street and Chestnut Hill Square, Wegmans and Route 9 for commuting.
BROOKLINE, MA – 20 Chapel Street, Unit C611
$1,100,000 | 2 Beds, 2 Baths
Listing Agent: Thomas O’Connor, 617.251.6393, thomas.oconnor@unlimitedsir.com
Located in the heart of the Longwood Medical Area, and near Coolidge Corner, this rarely available two bedroom is just a quick jaunt to Trader Joe’s, a few steps to Hospitals (Brigham/Beth Israel/Children’s) and Green Line T. Emerald Necklace is right outside.
JAMAICA PLAIN, MA – 51 Iffley Road, Unit 2
$689,000 | 2 Beds, 2 Baths
Listing Agent: Sean Preston, 617.855.8502, sean.preston@unlimitedsir.com
High-efficiency new construction with private outdoor space, parking, and city views. This home is perfect for entertaining or as a soothing retreat. Close to the Orange Line and buses, many parks and recreation areas, and growing restaurant scene.
About the Affiliate
Unlimited Sotheby’s International Realty is an independently owned and operated franchisee of Sotheby’s International Realty® Affiliates LLC, specializing in full-service real estate in Boston, Brookline, Jamaica Plain, Newton, and surrounding Greater Boston communities. The company’s unique approach to marketing, innovation, and reputation for servicing extraordinary homes, combined with my knowledge of the local market and high-quality customer service, allows us to offer clients an unmatched level of service.
For more information, we can work with our affiliate, Unlimited Sotheby’s International Realty, to help find you a home in Greater Boston.
Field Notes | 5 Beautiful Lots You Could Own
It goes without saying that when it comes to real estate, location is everything. Whether it’s a neighborhood, suburb, or arrondissement, many of us place a premium on location and search carefully for the perfect home in just the right place. But there is another solution: why not build around your ideal lifestyle? A raw plot of land presents the ultimate blank slate on which to craft the home of your passions, whether they include making wine, rearing cattle, or enjoying leisurely solitude by the sea. Below, these five plots present striking possibilities for building your dream home from the ground up.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Tom Evans, Valerie Conger, & Melinda S Day, Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty
If you find your days interrupted by thoughts of fresh, crisp air, wide open spaces, and sweeping mountain ranges, look no further than the 105 acres at this Jackson Hole lot. Sprawling across the Bar BC Ranch, a swath of rangeland known for its spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife, and blue ribbon fishing, this vast plot is perfect for homeowners who dream of running their own ranch. A generous plot size provides plenty of space for cattle or horses to roam, while avid or aspiring ranchers can see for themselves what shaped the cowboy culture prevalent in this pocket of the country. One of the least populous states in the U.S., privacy is guaranteed, which also makes for some of the best air quality in the country and ideal conditions for nighttime stargazing.
Chile
Javier Contreras, Chile Sotheby’s International Realty
Coastal charm rule this stately Chilean plot situated on the threshold of Patagonia. Its varied grounds combine native forest, four miles of beach shore, and 27 miles of riverbank, with a total lot size of 32 acres rich with possibility. The region’s unique geography—bolstered by the Andes mountains to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west—provide viable conditions for grape-growing, while its fertile grounds are also suitable to host sheep and other livestock. In addition, its coastal location makes this lot ideal for enjoying all the trappings of a coastal lifestyle, from kayaking and fishing to sighting dolphins and whales.
Turks and Caicos
Nina Siegenthaler & Joe Zahm, Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty
For a lot that lends itself to a life of leisure and privacy, a private island in Turks and Caicos can’t be outmatched. Nestled into the west coast of Parrot Cay, this 3.3-acre beachfront parcel presents a rare opportunity to own prime beachfront real estate on the island. Its 330-feet stretch of pristine white sand and jewel-toned waters is shared only with the guests of neighboring luxury resort COMO Parrot Cay. An ideal destination for homeowners looking to develop a low-maintenance vacation or income property, COMO Parrot Cay provides estate management service, meaning your property is in good hands wherever in the world you may be.
Paradise Valley, Arizona
Cliff Davis, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
When looking to escape cloudy days and snowy weather, the American West looks particularly bright. Whether it’s horseback riding, mountain biking, or off-roading you enjoy, an arid-climate abode is suitable for a life built around the outdoors. Swap snowy weather for sunny days on these appealing Arizona acres, located in the sought-after seclusion of Paradise Valley. Comprised of four five-acre, contiguous lots, this listing occupies nearly 20 unspoiled acres in a picturesque western setting—perfect for constructing your own desert oasis. Its ideal position on the north side of Mummy Mountain is level enough for building while still at the right elevation for expansive mountain views.
Queensland
Michael Vettoretto, Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty
Those tempted by the tropical life can take their ease at this Queensland estate, tucked inside a peaceful cove on Australia’s Magnetic Island. Comprised of three blocks of land on two titles, this lot totals almost an acre and is conveniently located near unspoiled beaches with fringing reefs along Alma Bay. Appropriate for aquatic enthusiasts looking to be active in a laid-back setting, this popular holiday destination presents a fantastic investment opportunity for developing an income property, with its waterfront location and close proximity to popular tourist attractions.
When it comes to vacant land, the possibilities truly are endless—all it takes is a little digging to unearth their true potential.
Looking for your dream vacant lot? We can help.
New & Notable Luxury Properties for Sale | October 2018
From an elegant stone residence in Quebec to an exclusive penthouse in Seattle that inspired a cultural phenomenon, these are this month’s four featured notable properties for sale.
Liza Kaufman, Sotheby’s International Realty Quebec
This elegant stone residence is nestled into the mountain in one of the city’s most prestigious enclaves. The imposing façade is representative of the rich architectural heritage of Montreal’s Golden Square Mile. A veritable cultural icon, this stunning mansion was exquisitely reimagined and masterfully renovated by one of North America’s most exclusive interior designers.
Michael Pallier, Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty
A home of true international caliber, featuring globally sourced materials and world-class vistas, this architectural triumph completed in 2017 showcases an unparalleled aesthetic of contemporary grandeur and sophistication over multiple levels. Almost every aspect luxuriates in panoramic harbor district and city skyline views, including the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, while the finest of finishes in every room heighten the sense of indulgence throughout.
Lee Koffman, United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty
This incredible double-fronted detached residence situated in this most sought after road in Hampstead offers nearly 8,000-square-feet of living space. The property benefits from off street parking for four cars, an integral double garage and a beautiful west-facing garden. Oakhill Avenue is situated just off Redington Road, within easy reach of the shops and transports facilities of Hampstead Village.
Scott Wasner, Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty
Live life elevated in the penthouse that inspired Fifty Shades of Grey – one of Seattle’s most iconic novel and film series. Walls of windows and a wraparound deck frame glimmering city views. Perched above it all, living spaces afford all one needs for a complete in-city experience. The home includes a media room, chef’s kitchen, sitting area, and a sumptuous master suite. Escala’s suite of amenities includes 24-hour concierge, spa, lap pool, gym, yoga studio, theatre, catering kitchen, and private dining.
Discover more real estate blog posts here.
Significant Sales | Volume II – Issue IX
From a record-setting sale in South Africa to a remarkable bayside home in the Hamptons, this edition of Significant Sales also showcases homes from the United States and Malta.
Seeking your next real estate transaction? Let’s connect.
Distinctive Destinations: Welcome to Queensland, Australia
G’day from Queensland, Australia! We partnered with Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty for Distinctive Destinations, a series that highlights a selection of properties from our global affiliate partners in the Sotheby’s International Realty network. They’re taking over our blog and social media today to show you the amazing real estate that Queensland has to offer.
Wharf Street
From time to time the privilege arises to purchase a one-of-a-kind property, and this is it. Introducing 1 Wharf Street, Port Douglas, an unrivaled north-facing oceanfront estate and exquisitely presented residence.
1 Wharf Street, Port Douglas | Listed with Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty
The home was conceived as an uncompromisingly luxurious family home with the capacity to transform into a corporate retreat entertaining from two to more than 100 guests. Constructed 30 years ago to impeccable standards, the 940 sqm interior underwent a contemporary makeover adding almost every conceivable modern convenience.
Sought after north-facing oceanfront with 180-degree views across the Coral Sea and Great Barrier Reef Low Isles to Thornton Peak.
Glass House
Listed for $4,795,000 – $5,795,000 the Glass House at Bargara is a multi-award-winning dream beachfront retreat on Queensland’s beautiful coast, a strong focus on natural materials connects the three-story home to its extremely private Kelly’s Beach site.
51 Woongarra Scenic Drive | Listed with Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty
One of the best houses in the country, The Glass House at Bargara is a multi-award winning dream beachfront retreat on Queensland’s beautiful coast.
A central open-plan kitchen is equipped with a large range of commercial-grade Gaggenau appliances including a coffee machine, oven, induction cooktop, Teppanyaki plate, steamer, deep fryer, and two wine refrigerators.
Swim all year round off your back doorstep, stroll along the esplanade of a morning, feed fish at The Basin, or play a game of golf at the nearby Bargara Golf Club. A paradise at the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, The Glass House is positioned in a popular seaside community only 14kms through lush sugarcane fields from Bundaberg.
Platinum on the Beach
Our last property, Platinum on the Beach, is listed for $2,450,000. The entire 7th level of this boutique beachfront tower offers the rarest of opportunities. Every facet of its design reflects the exclusivity of the location, overlooking the beach and ocean just a stroll from Central Surfers Paradise.
7/15 NorthCliffe Terrace | Listed with Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty
Surfers Paradise is a suburb within the local government area of City of Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. Colloquially known as ‘Surfers’, the suburb has many high-rise apartment buildings and a wide surf beach. The feature of the heart of the suburb is Cavill Mall, which runs through the shopping and entertainment precinct.
In the spacious formal living area, floor-to-ceiling windows look out over the beach, with south-east views stretching to the state border.
Quality and craftsmanship are apparent throughout in finishes of high-gloss timber, stainless steel, and polished Italian marble. The kitchen features granite benchtops, abundant storage, and European appliances. Plantation shutters add a tropical air to the adjoining family TV lounge.
Ready to find your dream home, whether near Lake Michigan or internationally? Contact us today.
Distinctive Destinations: Heed the Call of the Water in These Seattle Waterfront Homes
We partnered with Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty (RSIR) in Seattle, Washington for Distinctive Destinations, a series that highlights a selection of properties from our global affiliate partners in the Sotheby’s International Realty network. The team at RSIR shared a collection of waterfront homes from the Puget Sound region that prove life on the Sound, as well as its neighboring straits and harbors, lakes and archipelagos, offers all the pleasures and adventure that draw people to the water’s edge.
Seattle, WA | Represented by Mary Norris & Paige Norris
Positioned within the historic Seward Park neighborhood of Seattle is WillowDon Estate, an impeccable offering situated upon Lake Washington with 174 feet of low-bank waterfront and nearly two acres of tasteful gardens designed by the renowned Olmsted Brothers. Fully restored to its legacy, the home offers state-of-the-art technology and a Stuart Silk designed carriage house to flawlessly accommodate guests. Single-family homes along this coveted coastline rarely come available for ownership and once sold they often remain in families for generations.
Camano Island, WA | Represented by Alex Thomas
A collaboration of art and nature, this Architectural Masterpiece invokes serenity through its natural surroundings to capture expansive 160-degree west-facing views of the Saratoga Passage as eagles soar above and whales migrate below. An internationally inspired design complements over 120 feet of waterfront with walls of windows that frame magnificent sunsets and open toward an expansive entertaining deck for taking in the splendor. Camano Island is known for its spectacular seafood, and people often dig in the sand for butter clams or find mussels on the rocky shoreline.
Winthrop, WA | Represented by Jay Kipp & Peter Phillips
A singular combination of spectacular location and thoughtful contemporary design by Prentiss Balance Wickline, Big Valley Ranch is a premier year-round destination in the Methow Valley defined by meticulous attention to detail. Located off North Cascade highway, the property offers valley views protected on all sides by state land and a 142-acre conservation easement. The grounds include three ponds connected by a creek, abundant wildlife, and one mile of riverfront for premier private fishing opportunities.
La Conner, WA | Represented by Brian Hawkins & Cyrus O’Bryant
Located at the edge of the Swinomish Channel, Heron House is primed for the water enthusiast with a commercial boat launch and a private dock for taking advantage of aquatic adventures atop the 11-mile saltwater channel and beyond. Take in the beauty of this stunning area through floor-to-ceiling lift and slide French doors that unfold onto a full-length patio for seamless entertaining amidst iconic Pacific Northwest views. Recreation extends beyond the length of the property, with easy access to the Anacortes and Lopez Island Ferry, golf courses and more.
Eastsound, WA | Represented by Peter Phillips
Cormorant Bay Estate is truly a legacy property beyond description, with stunning Northwest Contemporary architecture influenced by the iconic design of Frank Lloyd Wright. The grounds include a private golf course, deep-water moorage within a tranquil cove and 2,300 feet of waterfront with a sandy beach. Perched upon Orcas Island, the largest of the San Juan Islands, Cormorant Bay is well-suited for the yachter, with an ideal location allowing one to easily pivot north to Vancouver, BC; south to Seattle, WA; and beyond.
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