experience Archives - Beacon Sotheby's International Realty

Tulip Time: Fast Facts

Local or not, the annual Tulip Time Festival here in Holland, Michigan is an event you’re not going to want to miss. This nine-day festival celebrates everything Dutch, and visitors experience vibrant parades, colorful blooming tulips, and unforgettable culinary experiences.

To add even more excitement into the mix, Tulip Time has been voted one of the Top 10 Best Small Town Festivals. Read along with some of these fun facts about our small town and it’s big party:

Did you know: Holland boasts over 5 million tulips during our festival. Tulips are located in city parks, public attractions and parks, and along our streets! This year, you can even Ask Alexa to track the tulip bloom for you, to keep up with every bulb this year.

The average time spent at Tulip Time for all visitors is 2.67 days. That time could be spent watching the parades, checking out the tulips on Windmill Island, or shopping and eating at Downtown Holland’s very best shops and restaurants.

There are 3 main parades that take place on 8th street. Volksparade comes first, otherwise known as the “People’s Parade.” Kinderparade is on May 9th, and features local school children dressed in their Dutch Best. Lastly, the Muzikparade, performed by marching bands and Holland’s best musicians (did you know: you can stream the parade from wherever you are! Click here to check out your options).

The average rating for visitors of Tulip Time is 9.10 – That means guests are very likely to recommend visiting Tulip Time to others! We are firm believers that it is impossible to have a bad time at the Festival, and this report from Hope College proves it!

At the end of it all: you can take home some bulbs for yourself! Take a piece of Dutch Heritage home with you, buy your own at Nelis’ Dutch Village, Veldheer Tulip Garden, and Windmill Island Gardens.

The Tulip Time festival is the pride and joy of our town, and we want you to experience all of it! Check out the full schedule here so you don’t miss a thing.

If Tulip Time is on your schedule this year, stop by and say hi! We’re located right downtown on 8th street, and we’d love to chat about all the things we love about Holland with you!

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.

Modern Color That Never Goes Out of Style

Color is powerful. It can be commanding, soothing, or energizing; therapeutic and mood-altering; and perhaps beyond all else, it can make (and leave) a solid impression. With such influence at your fingertips, deciding on a color palette for your home can feel daunting—deciphering the nuances, knowing when to go bold—but these tried-and-true shades never go out of style.

Black and White

Nantucket, Massachusetts | Craig Hawkins & Bernadette Meyer, Maury People Sotheby’s International Realty

Has there ever been a more classic color combination? Checkered floors will always be a kitchen favorite, but the fresh way to use this combo is to lean further into white and employ black in the elegant contrasting details, as seen at this beautifully designed Nantucket home. The pairing offsets the more casual aspects of the home, including an outdoor pool and family game room.

Taupe and Coffee

Montecito, California | Suzanne Perkins, Sotheby’s International Realty – Montecito – Coast Village Road Brokerage

Typically, Balinese-style beach houses in tropical destinations are outfitted with bright accents to offset the wealth of wood running throughout, but this Montecito stunner breaks the mold with shades of taupe and coffee. The mostly monochrome walls and furniture take a refined and relaxed backseat so the setting—particularly the sunset views from the infinity pool—can really shine.

Gray Escape

Southampton, New York | Harald Grant & Bruce Grant, Sotheby’s International Realty – Southampton Brokerage

From a cloud-like softness to steely strength, gray has substantial versatility, especially when it comes to modernizing traditional estate designs. Upstate at a Southampton summer-house, an airy main living space is accented in slate and smoky metals, adding depth to an otherwise creamy palette. Punch up neutral rooms with this moody hue and bask in the calming power of a good gray.

Soothing Blues

New York, New York | Randall Gianopulos & Christian Emanuel, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

Dusty blue curtains, porcelain objets d’art, and a beautiful coat of blue paint all pair perfectly with antique, historical furniture, crafts-style woodworking, and a heavy dose of patterned fabrics. Blue’s tranquil feel has the ability to anchor beloved treasures, as seen at this Upper East Side mansion in New York.

Yellow and Gold

San Francisco, California | Bernadette Lamothe, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

There is a particular richness to yellow tones, be they featured on textured mustard walls, sunshine-bright seating, or rippled gold frames. Not only does this sunny shade complement almost any kind of lighting design masterfully, but it instantly illuminates vintage chandeliers and antiques. Pass it from chair to patterned wall to French door to feel as though you’ve stepped into Versailles, as executed at this palatial Pacific Heights apartment in San Francisco.

While there is much to be said for passing trends, as long as you stick to a classic color palette, your home will always stay in fashion.

Find palettes that spark your imagination in these designer listings, and bring timeless color into your life.

A Sunday in Milan

Italy’s second largest city is no slouch. Centuries of history, art, and culture underscore its reputation as a high fashion destination, design hub, and foodie paradise. Milan is also the nation’s financial and economic capital, drawing in business and design powerhouses from around the world. Whatever the reason you come to Milan, you’re sure to find yourself in close proximity of something to revere.

Morning

Milan, Italy | Barbara Fregonara, Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

Start your sacred Sunday in the fashion district among the haute couture boutiques in an on-trend contemporary penthouse. Take in the views of the Duomo from your lower private terrace or 360-degree views of the city from a second terrace upstairs before pouring over your options in the walk-in closet. Alternatively, you can rise nearby, in an exclusive two-story penthouse with concierge service, complete with 180-degree views of Viale Luigi Majno and sweeping city vistas.

Pasticceria Marchesi in Milan, photo courtesy of Pasticceria Marchesi

Wherever you start, it is sure to be close to a spot for “colazione all’italiana” (Italian breakfast), which consists mainly of three major coffee food groups: espresso, cappuccino, or latte macchiato. Pair your pick with an Italian cornetto—usually more petite and sweeter than the French croissant, and often filled with jam, cream, or chocolate spread. If you want to wander to a true breakfast institution, venture over to Via Montenapoleone and visit the 19th-century-built Cova or Marchesi cafés.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, photo courtesy of pcruciatti / Shutterstock Inc.

Hopping on a tram and getting lost in the city is a favourite Milanese pastime, so beyond the beautiful Duomo di Milano, you’ll find some hidden and entertaining treasures in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a glass arcade shopping center first designed in 1861, or the romantic Orto Botanico di Brera gardens in the art-laden district of Brera, where pathways of greenery and lush flora may convince you that you’ve suddenly stepped into the countryside.

Giardino Botanico of Brera, photo courtesy of pcruciatti/ Shutterstock Inc.

Even if you didn’t wake up next to it (possibly because you’re in Milan’s modern Porta Nuova district, where impressive new skyscrapers are changing the skyline of the city), the Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli is Milan’s oldest and most impressive park. Since 1784, the gardens have been repeatedly enlarged and enriched with educational attractions, including the Natural History Museum and Planetarium.

Afternoon

Japanese sushi restaurant in Tortona, photo courtesy of Paolo Bona/ Shutterstock Inc.

Head to the young and dynamic district of Tortona for lunch, where new and innovative restaurants serving Indian and Japanese dishes are mixing it up amongst the old Milanese osteria. A plate of traditional “cotoletta” (pan-fried veal) is sure to satisfy.

After your bite, you must shop. After all, Milan is an epicenter of global style. In Brera, Tortona and Naviglio, small boutiques with emerging luxury designers offer shoppers something fresh, while in the Via Montenapoleone fashion district, you can find the most famous labels within steps of each other.

Evening

Iyo restaurant in Milan, photo courtesy of Iyo

To visitors, Milan may be a pizza and pasta heaven, but to real foodies, it is a Michelin-star capital. Try Cracco in Galleria, Iyo, or Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia to start. More casual but equally delightful fare can be found at luxury Indian spot Cittamani, hipster hangout Dabass, or Potafiori, where you can eat amidst bold arrangements of the seasons latest blooms.

Post-dinner cocktails and aperitivos can be found along the Corso Garibaldi, which doubles as a fantastic pedestrian street, should you wish to walk off your meal. Or head back to Brera, where Bar Jamaica has hosted Italian artists and poets since 1911, including Gianni Dova, Roberto Crippa, and Erenesto Treccani.

“Milan is full of hidden treasures, from the Giardino Botanico in Brera to the old Milanese streets close to Corso Magenta,” agree Milan real estate experts Ilaria Pinto and Nerina Masini from Italy Sotheby’s International Realty.“You should hop on a tram and get lost in the city”.

Wherever you plan to shop, see, and eat the day away, your Sunday in Milan is sure to be full of serendipitous turns and surprises and wrapped in the city’s rich history.

A Tour Through Cottage Country | Coveted Lakeside Properties

“Cottage Country” means something different depending on the continent, but from Yorkshire to Muskoka, luxury cottages are less quaint cabin, more palatial retreat. Each one is surrounded by natural beauty and equipped with premium getaway amenities: private pools, wine cellars with tasting rooms, deep water boathouses, and so on. And despite the opulent trappings, each retains a certain charm: warm wood walls and ceilings, grounds dotted with wildflowers, plenty of fireside seating, and conveniently located nearby villages. Here are some of the most coveted lakeside properties in Canada and England, two countries with strong cottage sensibilities.

Stonecroft Manor, Erin, Ontario

Janice Williams & Amalia Bekerman, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

Historic charm and lodge detailing run through this country estate that dates back to the mid-19th century. With over 95 acres to explore, plus ample space for entertaining, Stonecroft Manor offers the comforts of a high-end bed and breakfast tucked away in the country, with the added perk of having the house all to yourself. Open a bottle in the wine grotto, wander past the spring-fed ponds, or take a dip in the refreshing outdoor pool before retiring to this Celtic-influenced four-bedroom country treasure.

A Coveted Lakehouse, Muskoka, Ontario

Ross Halloran & Roger Kolbuc, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

Bask in incomparable Lake Muskoka views from the deck, stone terrace, patio, or boathouse roof of this l akehouse gem. At the waterfront, a two-story boathouse will wow any water sports enthusiasts, while 315 feet of southern exposure shoreline will impress beachcombers and loungers alike. Inside, warm pine paneling and considered country touches add layers of comfort to this breezy vacation spot. Sunset after sunset, the vistas from this cottage will never get old.

Capel Manor, Dorking, England

John Fisher, United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty

Famed garden designer Gertrude Jekyll put her painterly touch to the formal gardens at this 13th-century Dorking manor. Walk alongside the wildflowers towards the heated pool for a dip or take your ease in one of several secluded seating areas. Further explore the property’s 14 acres to discover pristine lawns and a sheltered stream, and rest from your adventures in one of the eight elegantly restored bedrooms. Contemporary upgrades include oak flooring and limestone, wall and window finishings, and modern bath fittings, making this estate the perfect home away from home.

Haverland, Hunstville, Ontario

Megan McLeod, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

Named for the historic inn this sweeping property once served, Haverland is a modern-day lodge in every sense. Greeting visitors with a field of lupins and just under five acres of wandering room, the 204 feet of private natural frontage and 5,200-foot timber frame of this lakeside bungalow make it one of the most coveted in cottage country. Take in 180-degree views, prep for a casual fireside meal in classic Adirondack chairs, or set off in a canoe for a late afternoon paddle from your private dock—the infrared sauna will be waiting for you when you get back.

Pachesham Park, Oxshott, England

John Fisher, United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty

A modern and elegant escape boasting a 100-acre golf course, expansive parkland, and lake access, this luxury property in Pachesham Park gives lucky cottagers over 6,500 square feet of space to relax. No amenity has been left unchecked—an integrated music system, porcelain tiling, American walnut floors, manicured lawns, Zoffany designer wallpaper, and Miele appliances add present-day convenience to this traditional home. Stroll the gardens or host a bocce tournament on the lawn at this quintessential English abode.

Studwell Lodge, Droxford, England

John Fisher, United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty

Rose gardens, ponds, a tennis court, and beautiful woodland stretch across Studwell Lodge’s well-appointed grounds. A Georgian home with Victorian appointments, this cottage is steeped in military history—Napoleonic tunnels included. Over four floors and 8,924 square feet, charming wallpapers, elegant shutters, an abundance of light, and open fireplaces work to welcome visitors to this modern refuge.

Part pastoral and part urbane, these idyllic properties in the glens and lakesides of England and its commonwealth cousin are a testament to the draw of English and Canadian cottage countries.

Looking for a summer cottage? We’re here to help.

5 Reasons to Experience Tulip Time

If you have never made your way to Holland, Michigan for their annual Tulip Time festival, this should be your year. Among the nine-day celebration of the city’s rich Dutch heritage comes blooming bulbs, eclectic parades, timeless events, and we can pretty much guarantee more klompen than you ever thought you’d see.

In case that didn’t provide you with enough hype, Tulip Time has been named one of the Best Small-Town Festivals by Reader’s Digest, and was recognized as USA Today’s 2016 Best Flower Festival.

Need more reassurance that you need to pay Tulip Time a visit this year? Here are our Top 5 reasons to experience Holland’s Tulip Time festival.

1. The Tulips

If for nothing else, at least experience the blooms! The Holland, Michigan area boasts over 5 million tulips each spring. From city parks to downtown on 8th Street, and pretty much every street corner in between, these gorgeous flowers pepper the city. Take in their beauty and the bright colors woven throughout the already stunning Holland landscape.

2. The Parades

You haven’t seen a community parade until you’ve seen a Tulip Time parade! The Volksparade is donned the “People’s Parade” with marching bands, specialty floats, and “street scrubbers”. The Kinderparade features local school children dressed in traditional Dutch costumes. Finally, the Muziekparade has over 4,000 participants with the longest festival parade route, boasting lively music and entertainment all along the route.

3. The Art

Whether attending a great concert, like The Beach Boys, or a hilarious River City Improv show, or just taking in the stunning pieces at the Art in Bloom exhibit, there is plenty of art and culture during Tulip Time. Some events may have a small fee for attending, but it’s always worth your while.

4. The Family Fun

Calling all thrill-seekers: you won’t want to miss out on the Tulip Time carnival! The ferris wheel towers over the Holland Civic Center’s North lot, while attractions aimed at younger kids are set up in the South lot. It’s guaranteed fun for even the most timid ride warrior.

5. The Food!

Our stomachs are already growling thinking about all of the food available during Tulip Time! Alongside some of Holland’s delicious year-round restaurants are vendors populating the city. From elephant ears to hot dogs to cotton candy and cinnamon rolls, this is a food-lover’s dream. Be sure to bring cash and take a bite out of some delicious Tulip TIme treats.

On your way to Tulip Time? Check out the festival’s full schedule so you don’t miss any of the fun.

In town for Tulip Time? Stop by our office, located right downtown Holland on 8th Street. We’d love to say hello while you’re here!

Sotheby’s International Realty® Hosts Exclusive Golf Tournament with Rafa Nadal Sports Center

Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC recently hosted the Rafa Nadal Golf Challenge in association with Rafa Nadal Sports Center in Manacor, Mallorca, Spain. The event was held as an exclusive networking opportunity for select members of the Sotheby’s International Realty® global network.

The exclusive, first of its kind event featured teams comprising Sotheby’s International Realty affiliates from around the world, including a team lead by Philip White, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC, and another lead by Rafa Nadal. The event enjoyed strong participation from Canada, Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Netherlands, Russia, Spain, United Kingdom, and the United States who each leveraged this global event to network and establish new relationships with the Sotheby’s International Realty brand and guests.

Rafa Nadal takes to the course on day one of the tournament

The three-day event took place at Mallorca’s top golf courses, beginning at Pula Golf, continuing onto Golf Son Servera, and ending at Golf Son Gual. Team Rafa Nadal took first place in the tournament, Philip White and team took second place, and third place went to team Czech Republic Sotheby’s International Realty and Marketplace Sotheby’s International Realty.

Philip White, chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC with Rafa Nadal

The Rafa Nada Sports Center, located in Manacor, hometown of Rafa Nadal, is a facility that is part of the Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar. Founded by Rafa Nadal and his family, the Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar aims to train young tennis players through high-quality training and by providing them with the tools they need to develop professionally.

Highlights from the Event

The Rafa Nadal Sports Center offers programs for adults to practice their favorite sports in addition to tennis and provides comfortable accommodations for families to stay. The Rafa Nadal Sports Center is also home to the Rafa Nadal Museum, which features a collection of trophies, souvenirs, and several interactive sports simulators.

All participants were especially thankful for Mallorca Sotheby’s International Realty support of the event and warm welcome to their office in the lively, beautiful city of Palma.

Luxury Real Estate Headlines: Second Week in February 2018

Highlights from this week’s top news stories on luxury and global real estate, art, collectibles and home.

A Former Coal Baron’s Mansion is Up for Sale – Bloomberg Pursuits

Can this Billionaire’s Row Apartment Beat the Odds, Resell for $70 Million? – Forbes

Dream Homes: Five Tempting Properties for Sale in Tuscany – USA Today

Mel Gibson’s Onetime Connecticut Mansion Lists for $22.5 Million – Wall Street Journal

Home on Lake Tahoe Compound Featured in ‘Godfather II’ Asks $3.7 Million – Curbed

A Warm and Sophisticated Ski Home on the Slopes of Aspen Highlands – Mansion Global

This Bermuda-Inspired Beauty on 30A is an Entertainer’s Dream (and it’s for sale!) – Coastal Living

A Condé Nast ‘Cottage’ Asks $12.5 Million – Wall Street Journal

Home Where Jackie and John Kennedy First Met to Hit Market – Mansion Global

House Hunting in… Hong Kong – The New York Times

Former Baseball Star Jimmy Rollins Hits a Record Price with Mansion Purchase – Los Angeles Times

High Tech Boom Leads Bay Area Prices to Soar – Mansion Global

Alpine Ski Chalet with the Stamp of European Royalty Beckons Hong Kong Investors – South China Morning Post

The Power of Home: New Story Builds Shelter and Second Chances – RISMedia

10 Ultimate Waterfront Homes We’re Coveting Now – Elle Decor

Sotheby’s Set to Auction Rare, Flawless 102-Carat White Diamond in London – The Japan Times

5 Homes Ready for Super Bowl LII

One of the world’s most anticipated sporting events is once again upon us; Super Bowl LII will see the New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles faceoff for the coveted Vince Lombardi trophy on Sunday in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

While U.S. Bank Stadium can seat 65,000 die-hard gridiron fans, its estimated that more than 150 million viewers around the world will be in front of their TVs with friends and families to enjoy the game, the cinematic commercials and film trailer debuts, and show-stopping half time performance by Justin Timberlake.

From a modern home bar in the host city of Minneapolis to an outdoor piece of paradise in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, these five homes are ready for the big game.

Lakes Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact Julie Regan & Jeff Hornig for more information

Don’t miss a second of the action in this home in Minneapolis. It features a vibrant bar with multiple viewing options and seating for many guests, all while providing a thoroughly modern take on the sports bar experience.

Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact Bill Churchill for more information

This Tudor Revival-style home in Dallas’ esteemed University Park will make you feel like you have sideline seats; nestle into comfy leather recliners and bask in the glow of the 12’ by 7’ projection screen as this THX sound equipped home theater brings every moment to you.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact Frank Aazami & David Mayo for more information

Continue traveling west and you’ll reach this more than eight-acre estate in Scottsdale, Arizona. An athlete’s paradise with sport court, putting green and weight room among its amenities, enjoy the Super Bowl outdoors from a fully-equipped wet bar and kitchen.

Queretaro Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact Sara Salazar for more information

Hacienda Las Fincas in San Miguel de Allende is a modern-style ranch on nearly three hectares inside an exclusive gated community. While the spacious home does offer an equipped home theater inside, you can also take in every exciting moment while enjoying year-round favorable weather from the terrace – complete with bar, pizza oven, grill, and high-definition television.

Beacon Sotheby’s International Realty | Contact Josi Van Horn for more information

Touchdown! You won’t miss a second of the big game from the comfort of this 12,500 square foot home’s theater. Keep game day snacks in the conveniently located butler’s pantry just off of the theater, then enter into your private viewing room with sound-declining material lining the walls and ceiling, keeping the cheering inside the theater and no where else.

Watch Super Bowl LII Sunday at 6:30pm ET on NBC

5 Ways to Transform Your Winter Space

If you reside in a warmer-weather climate, we here in Michigan might be a tad jealous. While we are experiencing a bit of a “heat wave” (with temperatures peaking just over 40 degrees this week!), winter is still full steam ahead. With precipitation in the coming forecast, we’re predicting more time that might be best spent indoors.

With that in mind, grab your comfiest clothes and put your dreams of summer on pause as you use these quick tips to transform your home into a delightfully warm interior for even the chilliest winter days.

Illuminate your space – Shine a light on winter! Make your space brighter by keeping holiday lights up a little longer and opening blinds and curtains, even with gray skies. The added light will boost your mood and maybe even help you forget it gets dark by 6pm.

2. Cozying up – Whether you have a love or a hate relationship with the chillier winter temps, the season only comes around once a year. Take full advantage by adding your best throws, blankets, and flannel sheets to your living and bedrooms. The added comfort is the perfect design element for your space.

3. Give your two scents – Allow a wintry aroma to filter throughout your home, creating a pleasant environment. Diffuse your favorite scent or add seasonal candles, greeting you as you step inside from the cold.

4. Burn, baby, burn – Light the fireplace for added warmth, as the flickers and embers create a cozy ambiance for your retreat.

5. Take a sip – Still battling the winter blues? Mix a festive drink! Whether it’s cocoa or a cocktail, there is nothing quite like a warm drink, a soft blanket, and falling snow to help you appreciate winter. That is, until it’s warm again. Then we’ll see you at the lake.