Sotheby's International Realty Archives - Beacon Sotheby's International Realty

The Collector’s Edition | Caring for Your Private Art Collection

Filling your home with art is both a way of expressing yourself and curating the mood and atmosphere of your space. Think of your home as your own gallery, a blank slate with endless possibilities to surround yourself with artwork that inspires. Perhaps you consider your art collection in a methodical way, procuring only a few pieces to fill white walls in need of a focal point; or maybe you’re an art lover, eager to diversify your collection with oil paintings and sculptures alike. No matter your goals or methods, collecting and displaying art in your home is a personal endeavor, but there are a few things to keep in mind once you have an established collection.

Hire an Art Consultant

Sonia Gherardi, ONE Sotheby’s International Realty

Part of the challenge of sourcing art is determining which pieces will work in your home, and how to obtain them. Hiring an art advisor or consultant—like Sotheby’s firm Art Agency, Partners—is an important step in ensuring that your collection is a thoughtful representation of your tastes. Curators that are linked to art institutions are not ethically permitted to be paid to advise private collectors on specific purchases, though they will sometimes be willing to direct you to catalogs, exhibitions, or galleries to help you make an informed decision; art advisors or consultants, on the other hand, are able to give you advice about which specific pieces to buy—and they have access to more off-market opportunities.

In addition to helping you determine and develop your taste, an art advisor generally has a strong network of galleries and collectors, which means they’ll be able to give you better access to opportunities ahead of the general public. Avoid overpaying for a work with an advisor’s guidance, who will be willing to bid for you at auctions and to arrange the logistics of transportation and installation. With their insider information and expertise, an adviser will be able to help you build a collection through both gallery purchases and public auctions.

Netherlands Sotheby’s International Realty

With a large art collection, it’s likely that not every piece will be displayed in your home at all times. Whether you choose to store additional pieces in your own home, in a specialized art storage facility, or in a private museum will depend on how vast and prestigious your collection is. Creating your own art storage will require determining where in your home is a suitable environment—avoid spaces with air vents or windows, which can damage art by exposing it to sunlight or air, causing fading or mold. Insurance is essential for any collector.

If you choose instead to store your collection with a specialized fine art storage facility, you will have the option of having a private space or a shared one. These facilities are outfitted with archival-quality conditions, like climate control, to ensure your artwork’s preservation. Sotheb y’s Greenford Park, for example, is the fine art storage facility for Sotheby’s London, and features a viewing gallery and photographic studios. Some collectors are compelled to establish private foundations or museums to house their overflow of artwork, choosing to share their collection with the public. Aiming for the best of both worlds, the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen of Rotterdam has plans to open a public art depot as a special extension of the gallery, which will house collectors’ work that can be viewed by the public on an appointment-only basis.

Maintain Your Collection’s Integrity with a Conservator

Midge Carolan Berkery & David Coleman, M ott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty

The moment you make an art purchase, whether you’re a first-time buyer or a veteran collector, you need to consider how you’re going to care for and preserve it. If a piece has been poorly stored in the past, leading to damage, or if you’ve acquired a piece through auction that has been unearthed from a forgotten basement, chances are the artwork is going to need some TLC. A conservator is trained to record the damage that has occurred and to reverse the damage, a valuable resource for any art collector. Often, the fees for a conservator’s work will be covered by your insurance policy, and the fee is dependent on the type of work that needs to be performed, not on the value of the artwork itself.

Experienced collectors know that hiring a conservator prior to a major purchase is a wise move, both to protect their investment and to ensure that the installation of the piece goes smoothly. Artwork can be extraordinarily fragile and easily damaged in transport.

Make Use of Freeports for Collection Rotation

Steve Sallion, Warren Lewis Sotheby’s International Realty

Whether you’re planning to rotate out the pieces currently on display in your home, or if your private museum or foundation is under construction and you need a temporary home for the pieces being displaced, utilizing a freeport is a smart option. Freeports—warehouses located near seaports and airports that facilitate international trade—allow the import and storage of valuable goods, providing secure long- or short-term housing for artwork. Pricing of freeport storage depends on geographic location as well as size—a freeport in Manhattan will cost more than one in Portland. With extremely secure storage options and a temporary exemption from tax payments, the freeport is useful to the collector looking for a reliable way to discreetly rotate valuable fine art.

Art can transform a home, turning it into a sanctuary of creative energy. However you choose to curate your collection, be sure to protect your investment with smart storage and considered professional care.

Find the perfect blank slate for your burgeoning collection with these works of architectural art.

2019 Pantone Color of the Year | Living Coral

Pantone®, the global authority on all things color, has named a new Color of the Year for 2019: PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral. On the surface, its lively effervescence evokes both lighthearted playfulness and bold self-expression. But it’s worth diving a little deeper to really appreciate this rich, thought-provoking shade.

Because what is living coral? It’s a community of tiny organisms who work together to build unique, bustling underwater cities. The vivid tones of the coral reef is a visual representation of community, vitality, and diversity. Here on land, this hue likewise reflects our communitarian spirit: through digital technology and social media, our world is more closely networked—but at the same time, this online closeness makes us crave authentic offline interactions and meaningful connections all the more. This color acutely signifies that need for communication and engagement.

“With consumers, craving human interaction and social connection, the humanizing and heartening qualities displayed by the convivial PANTONE Living Coral hit a responsive chord,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute.

While PANTONE 16-1546 can add a refreshing, carefree whimsy to any home, it’s certainly a staple of the Mediterranean, where brilliantly-colored mansions are reminiscent of barrier islands rising from the reefs. Here are some places and spaces with hues inspired by Living Coral.

A Hilltop Villa in Côte d’Azur

Peter Illovsky, Côte d’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty

This vibrant hilltop villa was built-in the Côte d’Azur region of southern France in 1950s, at the behest of a wealthy Italian countess. Though it has been recently renovated, its views of the sparkling sea and the twinkling city lights remain as timeless as its traditional Florentine architecture. Old-fashioned touches, like the library, parlor, and orangery, are juxtaposed with contemporary luxuries such as the state-of-the-art kitchen and sleek infinity pool.

Modern Refinement in Algarve

Vilamoura Office & Virgolino Gomes, Portugal Sotheby’s International Realty

There’s no shortage of modern élan in this magnificent, spacious villa. Situated in the picturesque Algarve region of Portugal, the property is only minutes away from the marina and beaches, and its gorgeous landscaped gardens feature a saltwater infinity pool, fruit trees, and views onto a pristine golf course. That makes it a perfect paradise for sun worshippers—though the interiors are just as spectacular, with huge airy rooms, marble floors, and a movie theater and fitness center in the basement.

Romantic Villa in Lucca

Eleonora Benetti, Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

Pantone says that Living Coral “embraces us with warmth and nourishment to provide comfort and buoyancy in our continually shifting environment”. This exceptional property in the historic Italian city of Lucca achieves a similar effect, creating a sanctuary of classic opulence and charm in a world that’s constantly changing. The exposed wooden beams and rustic tiling add to the authenticity of this one-of-a-kind villa, as does the enchanting sculpture garden with its backdrop of vineyards and olive groves.

Tasteful Opulence in Opatija

Marko Pažanin, Croatia Sotheby’s International Realty

Located in the famous spa town of Opatija—a favorite among the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s elites—this villa’s coral-colored exterior complements the aquamarine sheen of the Adriatic Sea, which is visible from the main terrace. You may not know by looking at it, but the majestic three-story home is close to 100 years old, bringing together an immersive blend of tradition and innovation.

This seems only natural: after all, PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral is a color of nuance and contrast. It’s described as a “coral hue with a golden undertone that energizes and enlivens with a softer edge”—so as it invigorates, it also soothes. As it invites active experiences, it also encourages contemplation.

This is much more than just a pretty pink: Living Coral is a reflection of the moment in which we live and a reminder that we must live in harmony with our surroundings, our environment, and each other.

Significant Sales | With Sotheby’s International Realty®

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.

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.

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 Reyn a, 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.

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.

Design Trends | How Texture Transforms Home Décor

Can’t decide what’s missing from your latest design project? Chances are, it’s texture. The texture is an all-important—and sometimes overlooked—element in transforming a space from flat to multidimensional, adding layers of depth and richness. Be it via countertops or flooring, creating the right atmosphere is all about choosing the right surfaces. Below, we feature nine trending surface textures and where to use them.

Concrete

Yolanda Tejeda, Chile Sotheby’s International Realty

Industrial charm doesn’t have to be reserved for the factory-turned-loft space. Concrete is a low-maintenance (and economical) way to pour on some industrial chic when it comes to your space. Flooring is a particularly savvy use of the material, as concrete tends to require minimal upkeep, and any dings, dents, and chips will only add character.

Quartz

Monty Roberts, Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty

Quartz is quickly gaining popularity as a low-maintenance alternative to sought-after surfaces like marble or soapstone. As a non-porous and stain-resistant material, quartz is ideal for kitchen countertops that see lots of entertaining. Comprised of parts of natural minerals bonded together with resin, it’s also one of the more environmentally sound options on the market, taking a greater-than-the-sum-of-its-parts approach to delivering a beautiful end product.

Marble

Peter Illovsky, Côte d’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty

With extraordinary, one-of-a-kind natural veining, marble in any space creates a striking, elegant effect. While the exterior of this surface is undoubtedly strong and beautiful, it’s important to keep in mind that marble has a soft side. A porous material, it’s possible for marble surfaces to be stained from acidic liquids (white wine, lemon), meaning a degree of maintenance is required. For those who love the look without the worry, consider using the material for bathroom countertops and flooring where acidic liquids are less likely to be used.

Parquet

Dali Shoval, Austria Sotheby’s International Realty

The 1950s and 60s were a heyday for parquet flooring, but the origins of this mosaic method of arranging wooden planks in a geometric pattern dates back to the 16th century. Nowadays, parquet flooring is synonymous with elegant European interiors and Haussmann-era Parisian buildings. The more traditional parquet floors are usually arranged in chevron and herringbone patterns, cut in a range of different types of wood from oak to walnut. Despite its luxe look, parquet often surprises with its manageable options for installation and moderate price point.

Carpet

Poland Sotheby’s International Realty

Carpets are an easy way to add a layer of warmth to your home, particularly in the bedroom where it can be comforting to wake up to something soft underfoot. Unlike their predecessors, the best modern carpets are stain, dirt, and water-resistant, thanks to new advancements in manufacturing. When selecting the right carpet for your space, be sure to take traffic into account: plush, high-pile textures tend to work better in lower-traffic areas, while close-cut piles are hardier and easier to keep clean.

Wood Paneling

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

When it comes to textures in the home, why should walls be neglected? Wood paneling may have gotten a poor reputation during the mid-century era, when it covered everything from basements to bathroom walls; today, it’s the purposeful approach that makes a statement. Go all out with floor-to-ceiling paneling and tons of natural light to create a warm, modern effect, or play with thinner wooden planks in smaller proportions for geometric visual interest.

Slate

Faisal Halum, Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty

It’s important to consider strength, crack-resistance, and temperature-retaining properties when selecting natural stone as flooring. One of the strongest natural stone options available, slate is an ideal choice underfoot as it is durable enough to go decades without needing to be replaced, providing proper maintenance is given. While this natural beauty is great at transmitting heat and cold, it is not so good at retaining it, making it ideal for homes in warmer climates or with radiant floor heating.

Moroccan Tile

Joan Eleazer, Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty

Whether for backsplash or flooring, tiles are a fashionable way to elevate and add luxury to a space. Some of the most well-crafted options emanate from Morocco, where the art of zellige—a process of fabrication using individual geometric pieces—is still employed today. These pops of pattern are surfacing in homes as a vibrant alternative to neutral tiles and floors.

Ledgestone

Bea Jarzynska, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

For a rustic environment full of cozy charm, consider using ledgestone. This technique of stacking stone to showcase its edge as opposed to its face creates loads of rough texture, establishing a gritty focal point that works particularly well for a statement wall, backsplash, or fireplace treatment. The variating tones and raw edging of ledgestone adds stacks of visual interest to even the most minimalist modern of spaces.

When it comes to great design, it’s all about what’s on the surface. From glossy countertops to cozy fireplaces, inspired surroundings start with the right textures.

3D Printing and Augmented Reality | A New Path to Home Ownership

Thanks to modern advancements in augmented reality and 3D printing, redesigning a space or building a new home has never been more futuristic. We are living in an era of unprecedented innovation, where homes can be assembled from scratch in just under 24 hours, and living spaces designed from a few taps on a smartphone. More than just passing trends, these technological leaps represent a disruption of the home and design industry. Here, we examine two of the most promising advancements in home construction and retail, and why they’re catching the world’s attention.

Laying Out the Benefits of Augmented Reality

Augmented reality (AR) offers a whole new way to see the world. It’s one of today’s fastest growing industries, with experts predicting the mobile AR market will reach a value of 70 billion USD by 2023. Augmented reality sees the real, observable world overlaid with digital data or images: we’re accustomed to AR cropping up on our screens—the yellow line marker projected in live football games being one prominent example—and on our phones, as whimsical filters adorn our photographs in real time. But how does AR stand to impact our homes?

Up until fairly recently, the use of AR in the interior design space was beset by growing pains, but a combination of savvy developers and strategic partnerships is finally allowing the market to flourish. What if you could reimagine a room in a myriad of configurations without the need for hauling furniture around? Retailers of luxury furnishings and high-end décor are permitting customers to bring their products home and try them out—digitally. Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty℠ makes it possible to conceptualize your rooms in the palm of your hands, providing a long-awaited tool for interior design enthusiasts and more casual browsers alike.

Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty is the firs t real-estate branded AR app available for Apple iOS-enabled and Google’s Android-enabled devices. Utilizing the power of the Google ARCore platform in tandem with online luxury furniture marketplace V iyet, the app enables users to scan their environs with their phone and then place, rotate, and adjust furniture as they see fit. Customers can test individual pieces or select from a wide range of preset looks, ranging in style from mid-century modern to traditional contemporary.

With simple features and real-time results, designers aren’t the only ones enjoying Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty’seasy user experience. By allowing prospective homebuyers to preview any house in their personal taste and style, the app is a powerful tool for sellers and real estate agents looking to increase buyer confidence in the purchasing decision. Whether you’re decorating your own home or someone else’s, it’s not hard to see how augmented reality opens new doors for visualizing any space.

3D Printing and the Future of Housing Fabrication

Another advancement taking the home and design world by storm is 3D printing. When it comes to framing and raising a new build, what once required hours of labor and a hefty budget can now be accomplished in less than a day for a sliver of the cost.

Photo courtesy of New Story Charity

In 2017, the Sotheby’s International Realty brand partnered with non-profit N ew Story in their mission to provide homes for under-housed families in Haiti, Mexico, El Salvador, and Bolivia. Pairing technological advancements from Austin-based startup ICON with donations from partners like the Sotheby’s International Realty network, New Story has created a 3D printer capable of creating a home in just 12–24 hours for the low cost of $4,000 USD.

Programmed to create the foundation and walls of the structure via a concrete-extruding printing apparatus, The Vulcan 3D printer produces single-story, 650-square-foot structures that represent a breakthrough in housing relief efforts worldwide. ICON co-founder Jason Ballard says 3D printing is something of a “unicorn technology” for the construction industry, singular in enabling faster, better, and cheaper projects to be completed with new creativity.

While many families in have already begun their lives in new, traditionally constructed homes made possible by New Story, more will soon receive a home in the world’s first ever 3D-printed community in El Salvador, and the Sotheby’s International Realty brand is proud to play a part in such a life-changing initiative.

What does 3D printing mean for higher-end homes? Flexibility. Liberated from the confines of traditional building materials, architects planning the 3D-printed homes of the future have a wider palette of shapes to choose from: according to New Story, “nearly any 2D floor plan imaginable can be printed”. Eco-consciousness is another factor that may drive luxury buyers to seek out cement homes, as the process creates very little waste, and the double-layer insulated walls are well designed for energy efficiency with a continuous thermal envelope. For those looking for a visionary, unique method of building, 3D printing may offer a path towards fresh, responsible design.

Far from fleeting trends, these modern innovations in the home and design space may very well become the norm. With the increased efficiency, convenience, and potential to transform lives made available by these recent breakthroughs, a technological revolution has never looked so bright.

We invite you to join Sotheby’s International Realty in supporting New Story’s efforts to build relief housing in Haiti, Mexico, El Salvador, and Bolivia. With tomorrow’s technology, we can create a future where everyone has a safe place to call home.

Light-Filled Modern Farmhouse in Bedford, Massachusetts

This light-filled, modern farmhouse-inspired home is nestled in almost two acres of wooded views. You’re greeted by a spacious mahogany front porch, stone walls, thoughtful plantings, and a private setting designed for casual elegance and comfortable living.

Bedford, Massachusetts | Barret Sotheby’s International Realty

Spacious rooms are flooded with natural light. The versatile ‘one of a kind’ floor plan was designed for extended family. The dramatic Chef’s kitchen with grand center island is perfect for entertaining.

The kitchen extends to a great room w/ built-in cabinets & gas fireplace. A cozy living room with fireplace, guest/in-law suite, office, and laundry room/mud room complete first floor. The second floor includes a luxurious master suite, three additional bedrooms, and a family room/library with access to a hideaway loft space.

Ready to list your distinctive home? Contact our agents today.

Featured Listing | Lake Michigan Waterfront Masterpiece

Dreaming of an entirely unique Lake Michigan beach home? Look no further than this inspired oasis, providing a private lifestyle situated near South Haven’s quaint downtown. Take a look into this contemporary beach home where luxury abounds.

Lake Michigan beach house

77280 South Beach Drive, South Haven, MI| $2,495,000

Whether you seek an inviting lakeshore home for entertaining friends and family, or a peaceful environment to soak in the summer sun, this custom-built retreat is your escape from the every day.

South Haven homes for sale

The main level makes entertaining a breeze with a state-of-the-art kitchen, dining, hearth room and living room. The covered patio is ready for an afternoon BBQ, with a sprawling lawn opening up to the beach below.

hearth room

The impressive trim details, including inlaid ceilings and classic built-ins, complement the refreshing coastal flair and underscores the meticulous construction of Mike Schaap Builders.

luxurious master suite

Reserved for rest and relaxation, the upper level provides accommodations for overnight guests, as well as a majestic master suite. Opening up to the deck, enjoy morning coffee or an evening sunset over the water.

Lake Michigan views

Awake to the calming sound of the waves. Waterfront amenities abound, including a beach bathroom and outdoor shower to keep sand at bay.

lakefront patio

Spend all your days on the shore of Lake Michigan or take a short bike ride into downtown South Haven, a hub of fine dining, shops and more. From morning until dusk, your lakefront residence will house your Lake Michigan memories for years to come.

Ready for an in-person tour? Contact Josi Van Horn today.