Frank Hardy Sotheby's International Realty

Fine examples of one of history’s most enduring architectural styles, these three homes feature clean simplicity, open floor plans, gentle organic forms and materials, and walls of glass linking their interiors with the outdoors.

Tarzana Treasure

Tarzana, California | Sue Walsmith, Sotheby’s International Realty – Calabasas Brokerage

This four-bedroom midcentury modern home in Tarzana has been remarkably re-imagined. The iconic elements of midcentury design pervade it, from the custom four-foot-wide entry door to the ash-clad Tesla charging station. Highlights include a well-equipped cook’s kitchen, Fleetwood windows and doors, a patio with a motorized louvered cover, a pool and spa with a Baja ledge, a fire pit with built-in benches, a covered outdoor kitchen, an alfresco grilling area, and a “wellness cabana” with a Nordic sauna, a steam room, and a snow room.

A Piece of Houston History

Houston, Texas | Cindy Burns, Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty 

Esteemed architect Karl Kamrath—a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright—constructed this sophisticated midcentury modern residence as his personal five-bedroom home on a secluded hillside above lush wooded ravine. Nearly every space of the 4,691-square-foot floor plan displays midcentury modern’s characteristic dedication to warm, eye-catching wood surfaces, period brickwork, stained-glass, clerestories, and oversized windows and sliding glass doors that blur the lines between indoors and out. Multiple patios were designed for enjoyment of the surrounding gardens.

Montecito Magic

Montecito, California | Richard Cheetham, Sotheby’s International Realty – Montecito – Coast Village Road Brokerage

Offering a rare blend of privacy, serenity, and proximity to hiking trails, parks, restaurants, shops, golf courses, and beaches, this three-bedroom midcentury-inspired ranch home enjoys an enviable location in the foothills of Montecito. The heart of the home is a spacious living area and a well-appointed kitchen, from which the three bedroom suites flow. Nearly every room opens to the bucolic grounds and gardens and the inviting outdoor entertaining areas.

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Published: July 7, 2022 | By: American Luxury Staff

NBA guard and L.A. native Spencer Dinwiddie took time out this summer to pick up this investment residence in Calabasas. The Dallas Mavericks team member paid $6.87 million for the spec-built property. The seller was looking for $7.685 million for the property when it first hit the market in December of last year; by April and prior to the sale, it was tagged at $7.249 million.

A contemporary Craftsman, the 2021-built home makes for a refreshing change of pace for the place and time, and kudos to Dinwiddie for taking a bit of a chance and not going with the tried-and-true moody modern farmhouse and its almost guaranteed return. The architecture fits right into the property’s mountain backdrop, and the home’s interiors are warm, down-to-earth and optimistic.

Highlights of the elements at work in the home: the fireplaces, clad in weathered-finish masonry; the living room gets one, it’s perpendicular to the room’s full-length bar, and there’s one in the dining room. The last is in the 1,000 sq. ft. master, one of five suites in the home. The mosaic effect of the fireplace accent walls is picked up in the fine tilework of the outdoor spa, which is positioned on the upper patio.

Down the hill via a meandering staircase, a second patio with a fire pit. Why not? The property has 2.37 acres to stretch out on.More info

To enjoy the most majestic landscapes on earth, you normally have to be willing to live rough for a few days. And the concept of living “off the grid” is certainly picturesque in theory, but cumbersome in practice.

But what if there was no need to compromise, and you could have your own sustainable, self-sufficient luxury accommodations situated near priceless natural treasures? Such properties do exist, and they have the best backyards on the planet. Have a look at three unparalleled off-grid luxury homes in the United States.

Catching Rays on the Mountains of Maui

Linda Jean Briske and Maeghan Pocock – Island Sotheby’s International Realty

Haleakalā is the massive shield volcano that makes up much of the island of Maui, and the name means “house of the sun”. Apt, since the slopes leading up to its summit — which are also a national park — offer what many consider to be the world’s most spectacular sunrises.

A breathtaking daybreak would be an everyday occurrence for the residents of this premier property, perched on 16 acres of private land at a 2,000-foot elevation. Affectionately known as the “art farm”, it spares no expense when it comes to the luxury lifestyle — including an infrared sauna to bask in after a day at the beach. Featuring a solar array consisting of 48 panels, a sophisticated catchment system for fresh water, and a propane-powered backup generator, the eco-friendly home was constructed to showcase the greatest gallery of all: the pristine environment and sublime ocean that surround it. 

A Minimalist’s Dream in the Texan Desert

Kumara Wilcoxon – Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty

As the largest ecoregion of its kind in North America, the Chihuahuan Desert is a marvel. Although large swaths of it have been transformed by human activity, 800,000 acres of mind-boggling canyons and gullies have been preserved in their original state thanks to Big Bend National Park.

Not far from Big Bend is the peaceful city of Marfa, where the Chihuahuan Desert landscape captured the heart of the celebrated minimalist artist Donald Judd. It’s therefore fitting that this unique, sculptural residence has an aesthetic of harmonious simplicity and uninhibited openness, and curates the work of two acclaimed architects: the building that contains the chef’s kitchen and entertaining space was designed by Rael San Fratello, while the structure housing the primary suite, studio, and lounge was envisioned by DUST. Along with floor-to-ceiling windows offering ample natural lights, the property is fully powered by solar energy.

A Personal Retreat Nestled in Utah’s Pines

Thomas Wright and Kerry Oman – Summit Sotheby’s International Realty

The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is one of the most popular nature areas in the US. When you think about the recreation opportunities on offer, this isn’t a surprise — skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling in winter, along with hiking, biking, swimming and boating in summer. And urban convenience is never far away, as all of it is bordered by some of Utah’s liveliest towns and cities.

At an elevation of 7,250 feet, this exceptional country-cabin-turned-luxe-estate functions as a private ski resort, spread across 49 acres of newly-landscaped forest that complements the area’s stunning peaks and dazzling natural lakes. With its own onsite solar array, a commercial-grade backup generator, six propane tanks, and nearly 300 kilowatt hours of stored battery backup, this home wants for nothing. It doesn’t even need water to be supplied, as its filtration system and 1,000-gallon storage facility are world-class, and well-water rights ensure the trees and grass never dry out.

When you feel the irresistible impulse to immerse yourself in nature, you shouldn’t need to prepare for a long journey. And as you strive to shrink your carbon footprint, you shouldn’t have to limit your dream lifestyle. These properties serve as inspiration to live independently, indulgently, and sustainably, and to find ways to take indoor-outdoor living to the next level.

Feeling a little more of a vacation-inspired theme? Check out these three Mediterranean inspired villas.

Summer is in full swing and much like the weather, the real estate market continues to heat up. If you are considering a move, take advantage of the longer, slower-paced days of summer to look at the incredible homes that are currently on the market in and around Charlottesville, before the start of a busy fall season. Whether you are looking for a large country manor, an elevated estate close to downtown or a charming Cape Cod in the center of Charlottesville, enticing options abound.

Keswick Estate – 1188 Club Drive // Keswick, Virginia // Contact: Murdoch Matheson, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.296.0134

The details: 4 bedrooms, 3 full and 2 half bathrooms, 6,191 square feet, 2.51 acres

Features we love: Modeled after a French-country manor, this home was designed for relaxed living. The home is built around a center travertine courtyard with lotus pond and enjoys ultimate privacy as the plot is surrounded by community forests. The east side of the home has a fenced in butterfly garden and the west side has a pollinator garden built on the concept of permaculture. The interior is immaculate and top of the line throughout. Numerous high end finishes include wide white oak wood floors, reclaimed timber ceilings, white oak built ins, a bricked bar with barrel ceiling, natural gas powered copper lanterns, a fitness room & art studio.

West Wind – 0 Middlebrook Lane// Middlebrook, Virginia // Contact: Murdoch Matheson or Conor Murray, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.296.0134

The details: 6 bedrooms, 6 full and 2 half bathrooms, 12,701 square feet, 408 acres

Features we love: This stunning 408 acre property in the Shenandoah Valley boasts a beautifully renovated Georgian manor home situated atop one of its many rolling hills. The land has an active organic farm, several fenced-in paddocks, regulation dressage ring, and seven natural springs. This property was thoughtfully designed and is perfect for entertaining. The main home has a gourmet kitchen, indoor pool and a main floor primary suite with luxurious bathroom & expansive closet. The property also has a second home, a 1650 square foot cabin, with equally amazing views, in addition to many outbuildings.

Hidden Luxury – 1154 Rustling Oaks Drive // Charlottesville, Virginia // Contact: Ann Hay Hardy, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.296.0134

The details: 7 bedrooms, 9 full and 1 half bathrooms, 21 acres

Features we love: Hidden Luxury is an exquisite property set on 21 acres, privately nestled in the coveted Rustling Oaks neighborhood in Western Albemarle. This brick Georgian offers every desirable amenity one could imagine. The gourmet kitchen which includes top of the line appliances, a walk in pantry and large butler’s pantry plus a separate bar room complete with wine cooler is a chef’s dream. Beneath the main level is a fully finished walk-out recreation level with family media room with fireplace, game room, full kitchen, full bath, home office, gym and salon. The large back patio is perfect to enjoy the home’s outdoor living spaces which include an outdoor kitchen, screened and tented pavilion perfect for entertaining, and a new 60ft heated pool and spa. The home is surrounded by meticulously maintained grounds with mature landscaping, vegetable gardens and a lighted outdoor sports court.

Whether high above Manhattan or gazing out at sunsets over the hills of California wine country, an outdoor area with a fireplace or fire pit becomes an exceptionally warm, welcoming open-air oasis.

Chic Ranch-Style Refuge in Tarzana

Sue Walsmith | Sotheby’s International Realty – Calabasas Brokerage

This handsome midcentury ranch-style home, creatively re-imagined for chic contemporary living, offers four restful bedrooms, an open-concept great room, a cook’s kitchen with Fitucci cabinets and superior appliances, and a garage with a Tesla charging station. The resort-caliber backyard features a dazzling pool and spa with a Baja ledge, a “wellness cabana” with a sauna and steam room, a covered outdoor kitchen with more top-tier appliances, a grilling area, and a warming fire pit surrounded by built-in seating.

Enviable Upper East Side Penthouse

Leslie S. Modell | Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan

This sophisticated penthouse occupies the top two floors on the south side of the Chatham condominium building. The custom-outfitted and -detailed interiors—which include a kitchen with a breakfast area and a butler’s pantry, a stunning spiral staircase, two bedrooms, and a versatile office—are joined by some 600 square feet of outdoor living and entertaining space, among them a terrace with a fire pit where the Manhattan skyline serves as a dramatic backdrop.

Southwestern Luxury

Britt Klein | Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe – 326 Grant Avenue Brokerage

The majestic Sangre de Cristo and Jemez Mountains envelop this stunning 5,919-square-foot residence in the exclusive community of Las Campanas. The heart of the home is an open-concept living and dining area with a distinctive stacked-stone fireplace, magnificent views, and access to alfresco living areas that boast vibrant landscaping and a wonderful dual-sided outdoor fireplace. Other highlights include a uniquely appointed kitchen, a game and media room with a wet bar, and plentiful, exceedingly private guest quarters.

Sonoma Stunner

Tina Shone | Sotheby’s International Realty – Wine Country – Sonoma Brokerage

On approximately 22 acres in the hills above the historic Sonoma Plaza, this 7,053-square-foot residence and its one-bedroom guesthouse enjoy truly expansive views. Its fluid floor plan encompasses three bedrooms, a gym, two theaters, a 1,000-bottle wine cellar, two offices, an updated kitchen, and a spacious family room. Floor-to-ceiling walls of glass overlook and give way to outdoor spaces, including a curvaceous sitting area centered around a romantic fire pit. The grounds offer miles of private trails, an orchard, olive trees, and 150 Zinfandel vines.

Classic Villa in West Palm Beach

Karen Lehrman Prayias | Sotheby’s International Realty – Palm Beach Brokerage

Recalling a quintessential Mediterranean villa, this lovely four-bedroom West Palm Beach home near Flagler Drive dates to 1924 and has been meticulously updated. Beyond a lush lawn, stately gates, and a walled wildflower garden with towering palms, its inviting, generously proportioned interiors open through French doors to the backyard, a tropical oasis with a 60-foot lap pool, a two-bedroom guest cottage, and an alfresco living room with a striking beamed ceiling and a handsome fireplace.

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Published: June 30, 2022 | By: American Luxury Staff

Following a family addition back in the spring of 2019, married actors Kate Mara and Jamie Bell settled on a quiet spot in Los Feliz for a better crack at parenting.

The couple closed on the home and, during their ownership tenure, carried out a few revisions to taste; nothing drastic aside from kitchen and baths, however, and the 1936-built four-bedroom, three-bath traditional is generally as subtly period as it was when they paid $2.6 million for it three years ago.

The home’s bedrooms are its standout spaces. Bright by virtue of plentiful glass and bright white walls and ceilings, and outfitted with French doors opening to the outdoor living area and double doors opening grandly to the rest of the home, the rooms are ebullient spaces that could put a spring of optimism into the morning routine of Jean-Jacques Rousseau.

Other notable spots in and around this home: the reading nook, a red brick-floored galley room of built-ins that culminates in a cozy window seat, and the enclosed porch, also floored in red brick. Covered and uncovered living areas, a lawn and red brick-bordered pool and sun deck, and a frame of leafy green sketch the exterior of this unmitigated charmer in the hinterlands of L.A.

Mara’s upcoming projects include comedy-drama Call Jane, with Elizabeth Banks, Sigourney Weaver, and Chris Messina.

Bell’s recent projects include action thriller Without Remorse, with Michael B. Jordan.More infoFor more information, contact Patricia Ruben and Alan Melkonyan of Sotheby’s International Realtyhttps://www.google.com/recaptcha/api2/anchor?ar=2&k=6LezWA0TAAAAAN5Z9sABHhRNnDeqysKnhy0CSG6P&co=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYW1sdS5jb206NDQz&hl=en&v=4rwLQsl5N_ccppoTAwwwMrEN&size=normal&cb=1ynskt5aj4umSend

Although his elegantly historical East Coast residence remains for sale at $10.995 million, actor Jonah Hill remains in West Coast home-buying mode.

The easterly property is a Manhattan pad; located in a Bleecker Street building that was, in its former life, home to a lithographic printing company, the 3,280 sq. ft. property features scalloped red brick ceilings, wide-plank hardwood floors, and oversized windows. It came up for sale in March.

Months before putting the NoHo home up for sale, Hill bought into a bit of Los Angeles history: the Colony community in Malibu, where he shelled out $9 million for a not-quite-beachfront that’s nonetheless exceptionally striking. A modern-style with a purist façade and an eclectic, wide-open interior that includes a long second-floor balcony, barn doors, kitschy chandeliers, industrial-inspired shelving, a unique commercial-style kitchen, and a master bedroom with a private sitting room enhanced by a gas fireplace accent wall, the home contains four bedrooms and four baths, and offers serene ocean views from its rooftop terrace.

Much more recently, Hill bought again in Malibu. And again, the neighborhood is the Colony. The house is a 1941-built 3,100 square-footer, and again it is a four-and-four. But it’s a beachfront this time around, and Hill shelled out $15.45 million for it.

The home’s interiors represent a marvelous evocation of period beach life; the softness of interior stucco, a fireplace, and a variety of architectural elements that includes semi-vaulted and raw timber ceilings, custom tilework, and nooks and crannies a-plenty. Its exterior spaces contribute greatly to its appeal, however; they include a beachfront deck and a splendid little courtyard floored in herringbone-pattern red brick pavers that features a wizened olive tree as a centerpiece.

Hill’s upcoming projects include Kenya Barris’ upcoming comedy You People, with Eddie Murphy, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Mike Epps, Deon Cole, Rhea Perlman, and David Duchovny.More infoFor more information, contact Tracy Lynn Testin of Sotheby’s International Realtyhttps://www.google.com/recaptcha/api2/anchor?ar=1&k=6LezWA0TAAAAAN5Z9sABHhRNnDeqysKnhy0CSG6P&co=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYW1sdS5jb206NDQz&hl=en&v=4rwLQsl5N_ccppoTAwwwMrEN&size=normal&cb=v7ymae7oz7xoSend

Whether a former barn or the onetime headquarters of a pharmaceutical company, these five homes have been carefully, stylishly altered and updated, respecting each building’s long, storied history while introducing architectural, aesthetic, and technological innovations.

Classic Hamptons Compound

Water Mill, New York | Harald Grant, Sotheby’s International Realty – Southampton Brokerage

On 2.8 acres on the banks of Mecox Bay, this early-20th-century Shingle-style home was painstakingly converted from a barn. Its light-flooded spaces include living and dining rooms, an eat-in kitchen, four bedrooms, and many delightful period details, from wide-plank wood floors to beadboard walls and sliding wood doors. The grounds feature a guesthouse, a pool, a tennis court with a viewing pavilion, a stone patio, an expansive lawn, a freestanding garage, and 112 feet of private water frontage with a dock and a waterfront cottage.

Magnolia Mansion Condominium

New York, New York | Mae H. Bagai, Sotheby’s International Realty – Downtown Manhattan Brokerage

Once a school showcasing prewar architecture, the lovely Magnolia Mansion Lofts building was transformed into a collection of modern condominiums in the 1980s. This 1,414-square-foot duplex features 14-foot ceilings, large south-facing windows, classic hardwood floors, living and dining areas, a sleek kitchen, and three serene bedrooms. Magnolia Mansion residents benefit from a shared courtyard garden with grills and tables, video intercoms, an elevator, and a full-time superintendent.

Chic Embarcadero Loft

San Francisco, California | Gregg Lynn, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

This stylish contemporary loft is among the luxurious residences created in the 1997 conversion of the offices, labs, and manufacturing warehouse of the Coffin-Redington Drug Company, a historic national landmark that dates to 1937. Renovated in 2020, this home boasts an easy flow; wonderful natural light; surfaces of concrete, walnut, and porcelain; audiovisual, security, climate-control, and soundproofing systems; motorized shades; and custom-outfitted closets. Residents share a sunny south-facing terrace on the penthouse level.

The Rosewood Farm Estate

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

On the grounds of the original Southampton Riding and Hunt Club, this beautiful six-bedroom home was transformed from a historic barn by its current owner—a renowned architect and designer. The residence shares some 34 acres of glorious greenery with an impressive brick patio anchored by a fountain, a four-bedroom guesthouse, an infinity-edge pool, a pool house cleverly converted from a stable, a freestanding four-car garage, and dozens of mature trees.

SOMA Sophistication

San Francisco, California | Gregg Lynn, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

Formerly a historic 1920 warehouse, One South Park is a collection of sleek, sophisticated loft homes in the vibrant SOMA neighborhood. During the renovation, the team at LDP Architects carefully preserved such period elements as oversized Palladian windows and whimsical portions of railroad track. On the eastern side of the building, this elegant residence boasts soaring 12-foot ceilings, two bedrooms, a kitchen equipped with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, and a living room with nine-foot windows. Parking for a bicycle and one car is included.

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