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New & Notable Luxury Properties For Sale | December 2018

From a palatial estate in Chevy Chase, Maryland to a remarkable Art Deco villa in the center of Rome, these are this month’s four featured notable properties for sale.

Chevy Chase, Maryland | Daniel Heider, TTR Sotheby’s International Realty

The Corby Mansion, built in 1893 for Francis Newlands, is a landmark in America’s first planned suburb designed by Chevy Chase architect Leon E. Dessez. A Congressman and Senator from Nevada, Newlands named the estate “Ishpiming,” meaning “high ground” in Chippewa. Senator Newlands was the organizer and first president of the Chevy Chase Club as well as a developer with the Chevy Chase Land Company. This highly coveted landmark estate prompted official inquiries regarding the possibility of it serving as the Vice President’s residence. The estate was instead sold to “Mother’s Bread” heir William S. Corby in 1909.

Moscow, Russa | Natalia Filipovskaia, Moscow Sotheby’s International Realty

This 2,164-square-meter mansion is located on nearly 6,000 square meters of land. Among the offered amenities, this home features a combined hall-library, home cinema, and swimming pool. An additional building on the site showcases a garage for four cars.

Bridgehampton, New York | Beate V. Moore, Sotheby’s International Realty – Bridgehampton Brokerage

This unparalleled oceanfront home was constructed in 2016 by master builder Ed Bulgin. Four luxurious ensuite bedrooms plus separate studio with bath give to breathtaking ocean views. The spectacular outdoor entertaining space surrounded by an oversized waterside gunite pool with spa, two grills, gas pizza oven, and fridge all overlooks the Atlantic. A three-car garage plus an additional one-car garage, two outdoor showers, and basketball hoop sit on nearly two beautifully landscaped gated acres.

Rome, Italy | Vincenzo Lupattelli, Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

This beautiful Art Deco villa is located in one of the most elegant districts in Rome, known as Ludovisi. Very close to the famous Villa Borghese park, Via Veneto, this residence is centrally located as it is only a few minutes from the Spanish Steps, Termini station, subway, and the shopping area. The villa has four floors and was built by the famous Roman architect, Carlo Pincherle.

Discover more properties for sale, in West Michigan or around the globe, by contacting one of our agents today.

6 Homes Near the World’s Top Design Events

Good design is a gateway to the world, a universal language understood around the globe. Effective design showcases the brilliance of individual creators along with the cultures and contexts in which they work. And it’s certainly worth traveling for—hence the emergence of international design weeks. Every year, amazing exhibitions of high style and exceptional craftsmanship take place in cities globally.

Here are six you won’t want to miss, along with some of the most stunning homes nearby. For true patrons, establishing a home base near these flagship events can make a one-off experience an annual pilgrimage. After all: a design enthusiast visits; an aficionado moves in.

Dubai: INDEX Dubai and Dubai Design Week

Dubai Design District, United Arab Emirates, photo courtesy of Solkafa/ Shutterstock Inc

Dubai has become synonymous with design; over the last decade, it has witnessed the rise of an avant-garde skyline whose buildings have shattered world records and won accolades. Within this architectural wonderland, the innovative Dubai Design District (d3) hosts Dubai Design Week every November. And in September, thousands of interior designers, decorators, artisans, and architects, converge on the city for INDEX Dubai.

Lewis Knollman, G ulf Sotheby’s International Realty

This spectacular penthouse, situated in the heart of downtown just across the water from d3, puts visitors at the heart of Dubai. It’s a rare unit in Burj Khalifa, the tallest freestanding structure in the world. This luxury home has a front-row seat to some of the most interesting and iconic architecture in the world.

But why fixate on the landmarks around this residence when you could be enjoying the landmark features within? Leading Dubai firm Bishop Design is responsible for the contemporary interiors, set among curving open-concept spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Stockholm: Stockholm Design Week and Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair

Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair, photo courtesy of Gustav Kaiser / Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair

Nordic design is well-known around the world for its elegance and functionality, and every February, Sweden’s enchanting capital lights up the long Scandinavian winter with Stockholm Design Week and the Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair. Hundreds of events, exhibitions, and installations are on display, featuring work by household names as well as exciting newcomers.

Anders Elbe, Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious loft in Östermalm is a great way to get cozy in this chilly city and take in the sights during the short days and long nights. With its edgy, sloped ceilings and exposed beams, this beautiful apartment on historic Sibyllegatan is a blank canvas—and therefore, a design buff’s dream.

Singapore: Singapore Design Week

Marina Bay Sands, photo courtesy of Ake Wa/ Shutterstock Inc

A futuristic metropolis set in the tropics, Singapore is home to some of the most striking architecture and design in the world; look no further than the famous Marina Bay Sands and the public Gardens by the Bay nearby. It’s only natural that it would be the focal point for one of the premier creative gatherings in Asia Pacific: Singapore Design Week, which typically goes for two weeks, and in its latest edition hosted over 100 events and 200,000 visitors.

Karen KOH, List Sotheby’s International Realty

Of course, many of the city’s most eye-catching design landmarks are mainstays—like this luxury condominium in District 9. The building is by the acclaimed firm Arquitectonica, and the innovative Y-shaped layout maximizes both the floorspace and windows, which overlook Singapore’s major shopping and entertainment strip on Orchard Road.

Milan: Milan Design Week and Salone del Mobile; Fiera Milano

Salone del Mobile, photo courtesy of Salone del Mobile.Milano by Alessandro Russotti

The mere mention of Milan makes most people think of fashion, with brands like Prada, Armani, Gucci and Versace headquartered in the city. But every March, it’s the interior and industrial designers who truly put on a show.

Milan Design Week is arguably the most iconic event of its kind, and its crown jewel is the Salone del Mobile furniture fair. What was once a trade show is now a confluence of epic conversations and larger-than-life ideas, with installations and demos from over 2,500 companies. In the off-season, patrons can still enjoy the largest permanent trade fair in Europe, hosted by Fiera Milano.

Ivan Imbriani, I taly Sotheby’s International Realty

To really embrace the spirit of industrial design, escape to t his turn-of-the-century loft. Originally a distillery for Compari, the building has undergone recent renovations; the eclectic mix of materials—checkered tile, wooden paneling, exposed brick—makes this home a feast for the eyes and a rare collector’s item. Not to mention, 10 Corso Como, a hub of Milan culture and style, is just down the street.

New York: NYCxDesign and the International Contemporary Furniture Fair

NYCxDesign, photo courtesy of NYCxDesign

Each May, New York City becomes the center of the design world with NYCxDesign, a series of fairs, events, and celebrations that span all five of its boroughs. Of course, Manhattan is at the heart of the festivities, and the ICFF at the Javits Center has been an institution of luxury style for over three decades.

Steve Sallion, Warren Lewis Sotheby’s International Realty

Manhattan may be in the thick of the action—but after several consecutive days of events, Midtown can be exhausting.This converted Brooklyn condominium is a perfect oasis for design aficionados looking to take a breather: originally constructed in 1927, it once served as the printing facility for theNew York Daily News, but now offers 4,000 square feet of outdoor living space, a two-tiered private garden, and an open-concept interior that gives the owner complete creative license.

São Paulo: DW! São Paulo Design Weekend

DW! São Paulo Design Weekend Installation, photo courtesy of DW! São Paulo Design Weekend

São Paulo has always known how to put on a show, and DW! São Paulo Design Weekend is no exception. Though it’s younger and less established than its counterparts in Milan and New York, DW! is known for its wide selection of featured events, and is the largest design festival in Latin America.

Bossa Nova Sotheby’s International Realty

For a home away from home in South America’s design capital, it’s difficult to do better than this apartment. Not only does the building bear the signature of modern design legend Daniel Libeskind, but the interiors have been meticulously appointed by noted Brazilian decorator Dado Castello Branco. To top it off, this retreat among the treetops comes with furniture from Minotti, along with the latest home automation systems.

Design weeks invite you to enjoy an ephemeral experience—a fleeting snapshot of world-class style that lasts for just a few days. But you can turn a weekend into a lasting work of art: whether you’re looking for a blank canvas to style, or a turnkey showroom featuring the work of today’s top artisans, there are apartments waiting for you the world over. And if you’re lucky, you’ll find one just around the corner from your favorite festival of contemporary design.

Take inspiration from the world’s top design destinations, and source your own home with remarkable details.

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, J ackson 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 Q ueensland 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.

Sotheby’s Gets “Banksy’ed” at Contemporary Art Auction in London

Sotheby’s recent auctions have been making headlines for many years – and quite often recently. Much like the record-breaking sale of a 1962 Ferrari GTO in August at Monterrey, the evening auction in London last week ended with unexpected results at the hands of famed street-artist, Banksy.

In a moment that caught the art world by surprise, Banksy’s Girl with Balloon self-destructed just as the final hammer signaled the end of an evening of auctions in London. The work sold for £1,042,000 ($1.4 million), tying the artist’s record in pounds at auction previously achieved in 2008.

Banksy’s Girl With Red Balloon Mysteriously Shreds Following Its Sale At Sotheby’s London. Image Courtesy Of Casterline Goodman Gallery

The framed work, spray paint and acrylic on canvas, mounted on board depicted a girl reaching out toward a bright red, heart-shaped balloon – one of Banksy’s most iconic images – began to pass through a shredder hidden in the frame.

“It appears we just got Banksy-ed.” Alex Branczik, Senior Director and Head of Contemporary Art, Europe London.

The unexpected incident became instant art world history and certainly marks the first time in auction history that a work of art automatically shredded itself after coming under the hammer.

Led by Jenny Saville’s monumental work Propped, which established a new auction record for a living female artist, the evening of Contemporary Art auctions brought a combined total of £68.7 million. The 25 artworks offered from the collection of the late David Teiger, the visionary collector, patron, and museum trustee, were 100% sold for an overall total of £35.9 million.

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: 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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7 Homes Near World-Class Dive Sites

With roughly 70% of the earth’s surface covered by water inhabited by some 230,000 documented species of marine life, there’s a whole world under the sea waiting to be explored. If you’re interested in regular dives becoming part of your lifestyle, consider setting up a permanent home base nearby. Take a look at some of the best scuba destinations on the globe.

Rosa Calderón, Riviera Maya Sotheby’s International Realty

Get up close and personal with the largest extant fish species in the world when you take the plunge in the waters of Isla Mujeres. During the summer months, fleets of hundreds of whale sharks gather north of the island to feast in the plankton-rich waters. Swap your scuba tank for snorkelling mask, as these pelagic swimmers often stay close to the surface to keep warm. Despite their enormous mouths, these sharks pose no risk to humans—meaning a real swim with the sharks is possible. Then take a weekend trip down the coast to Cozumel, where you’ll find a healthy Caribbean reef and dives for every level of skill.

Eloisa García, Riviera Maya Sotheby’s International Realty

Recount your under-the-sea adventures over dinner on the terrace at this Isla Mujeres manor located just a short distance from North Beach. With breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea available from each window, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. In need of a little more R&R after an exhilarating dive? Travel a little further down the coast and retreat to this Playa del Carmen property—complete with its own private spa and pool.

Barbara Wolveridge, Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty

It’s hardly surprising that the Great Barrier Reef has been a top aspiration for many a diver. Over 2,900 individual reefs and 300 coral cays comprise this vastly diverse UNESCO-listed landscape—the only living structure on earth observable from outer space. Alongside more than 1,500 species of fish, navigate through kaleidoscopic displays of brightly colored coral, crustaceans, and other critters.

Beach, eat, sleep, repeat might just become your new routine at this coastal Queensland home. Often considered the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the city of Cairns plays host to this glamorous oceanfront home, situated on a dramatic beachfront on the northeastern shores of Queensland. After descending the depths of the Coral Sea, cap off your adventures by sinking into a hammock suspended between two palms, or sunning on the deck of the spacious saltwater swimming pool.

Gayle Ching, MacArthur Sotheby’s International Realty

A Manta Ray Night Dive should definitely be on every diver’s bucket list. Kailua-Kona, located on the west coast of the Big Island, is one of the few destinations in the world where it’s possible to experience a nocturnal swim with these gentle giants. Safer than their stinging counterparts, manta rays pose no harm to divers. After taking in the blazing Kona sunset, enter the depths to see these 16-foot creatures hunt for plankton. Use this gated Hawaiian residence as a launch pad to explore all that the Big Island has to offer, from crashing waterfalls to tropical rainforests.

Karen Davidson, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty

Follow the barks of sea lions to the small volcanic island known as Anacapa in California, one of North America’s best diving sites. Drift through lush kelp beds and watch the harbor seals putting on their finest acrobat routines. Life is but a California dream at this oceanfront beach house located just a few nautical miles northeast of the island, with secluded decks perfect for entertaining or soaking in every moment of sunset.

Donna Medrea, Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

SoCal is home to still more first-class diving sites: La Jolla Underwater Park, a short distance from San Diego, guarantees sightings of a wide range of marine life including sharks, nudibranchs, and octopi. Explore the depths of nearby Wreck Alley, featuring the remains of eight different ships, including a 366-foot Canadian Mackenzie-class destroyer known as the Yukon, and the Ruby E, a 165-foot Coast Guard cutter. Enjoy all the sights and sounds of the ocean with all of the grandeur of Old Hollywood from this sprawling 1940s-era La Jolla Estate.

Michelle Bess Bellegarde & Pierre Bellegarde, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sotheby’s International Realty

When it comes to photographing marine life, the reefs off the islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines are among some of the world’s most camera-friendly. Forests of black coral, haunting sea caverns, and a wide range of photogenic sea creatures including reef sharks, Hawksbill turtles, and seahorses offer an abundance of subjects and backdrops. A nearby Pirates Cove escape provides location for discerning adventurers looking to explore the archipelago, with close proximity to dive sites and volcanoes.

There’s so much more to oceanfront living than what can be found on dry land. You never know what you might encounter when you explore the depths of the world’s most fascinating underwater ecosystems.

Source your own beach home or private island to ensure that your next scuba excursion is just a short distance from your door.

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.

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.