ON THE MARKET // CHARLOTTESVILLE MARCH 2022 REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

Horseshoe Hill // 4545 Louisa Road Keswick, Virginia
Horseshoe Hill // 4545 Louisa Road Keswick, Virginia

As winter draws to a close and we head into spring, it may be the perfect time for you to look for a new home! We have rounded up plenty of tempting options, that would all be a dream to move into this spring. From an impeccably renovated farmhouse estate set on 40 picturesque acres, to both mid-century and modernist masterpieces, a 150 acre country estate worthy of preservation, new construction with classic elegance and a 200 acre parcel with endless possibilities, the March real estate roundup once again proves that the Charlottesville area has it all. Read on for our favorite Scouted properties this month.

Horseshoe Hill – 4545 Louisa Road // Keswick, Virginia // Contact: Ann Hay Hardy, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.296.0134

The details: 4 bedrooms, 4 full and 2 half bathrooms, dream kitchen, 42 acres
Features we love: A complete renovation in 2018 turned this classic farmhouse into a sophisticated and luxurious retreat, with every amenity you can imagine … from a dream kitchen, to an oversized laundry room, a gorgeous pool and a tennis/pickleball court. This stunning property in the heart of Keswick offers great indoor and outdoor living, and provides sweeping pastoral and mountain views.

Stanford Hall – 827 Campbell Road // Keswick, Virginia // Contact: Murdoch Matheson, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.296.0134

The details: 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, 3,367 square feet, 155 acres
Features we love: Stanford Hall is a hidden gem. This c. 1822 eclectic country manor is situated in the middle of 155 acres with stunning views of the SW Mountain range. The historic home has a grand scale with 10.5 ft ceilings, marble mantels and double hung windows … worthy of restoration & preservation.

Keswick Country Estate – 2884 Palmer Drive // Keswick, Virginia // Contact: Murdoch Matheson and Yates McCallum, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.981.7439

The details: 4 bedrooms, 4 full and 1 partial bathroom, 4.15 acres
Features we love: This country retreat within the gates of Keswick Estate showcases superior craftsmanship and architectural detailing. All of the modern refinement of a new build, with the classic elegance of Keswick Estate. A covered brick terrace and screened porch, as well as a winter room, make for beautiful year round indoor/outdoor living.

Barbee – 1521 Rugby Road // Charlottesville, Virginia // Contact: Ann Hay Hardy, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.296.0134

The details: 5 bedrooms, 2 full and 1 partial bathroom, 0.5 acres in the heart of town
Features we love: This mid-century-inspired home was designed by renowned architect Fred Nichols, the dean of the Architecture school at UVA and known for his restoration of the Rotunda. The focal point of the home is the two-story vaulted entertaining space with a central brick dual-sided fireplace. Features such as cedar siding with redwood interiors, antique period lighting, original bathroom vanities and fixtures in pristine condition, and a built-in greenhouse are among the special details that this home has that cannot be found in today’s construction. Check out this one-of-a-kind time-capsule.

Queensland Estate – 0 Dogwood Drive // Kents Store, Virginia // Contact: Conor Murray, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.964.7100

The details: 200 acres
Features we love: Conveniently located between Charlottesville and Richmond, Queensland Estate is the perfect place for you to create your own family estate, retreat, hunting sanctuary, or development. The possibilities are endless in bucolic Kents Store.

Billionaire Couple Mark and Robyn Jones Asking $37.5M for Turks and Caicos Compound They Bought From Bruce Willis

Billionaire Couple Mark and Robyn Jones Asking $37.5M for Turks and Caicos Compound They Bought From Bruce Willis

Published: March 8, 2022 | By: American Luxury Staff

Two years ago, Goosehead Insurance founders Mark and Robyn Jones were the buyers of Bruce Willis’ custom-designed tropical getaway on Turks and Caicos’ Parrot Cay. This winter, the property returns to the marketplace, an unusual opportunity to own a genuine paradise.

Willis put the compound up for sale in the spring of 2019, asking $33 million. The Joneses acquired it within months of its appearance on the open market, closing on it with a $27 million offer. Now they, too, have put it up for sale, at COVID-era pricing. They’re looking for a buyer with $37.5 million to spend.

The seven-acre trade winds idyll has many a consolation to offer. It’s been titled The Residence; the singularity suggested by the moniker is due to the fact that the estate is the single home on the island, not because there is only one structure. There are in fact three houses in The Residence, with interior square footage totaling 18,000, and an accommodations count of eleven bedrooms and fourteen baths.

Interior living areas are finished in a relaxed and unpretentious style; at no point does the décor attempt to compete with the setting, a wise design sensibility that allows the palms, white sand beaches, and turquoise water to carry the day. Cathedral ceilings, hardwood floors and trim, and natural stone in the baths and kitchen are among the details.

Among individual spaces, the owner’s bedroom takes the blue ribbon; a generously proportioned space with a hipped ceiling and a tonal execution in off-white, it’s airy and clean, and the tropical colors outside the windows positively resonate.

In case you’re trying to keep up, the Joneses’ net worth is around $1.8 billion.More info

Sale represented by SIR!

Paul McCartney Parts With Manhattan Duplex for $8.5M—$7M Below Purchase Price

Paul McCartney Parts With Manhattan Duplex for $8.5M—$7M Below Purchase Price

Published: February 26, 2022 | By: American Luxury Staff

Seminal pop musician Paul McCartney sold his Manhattan residence recently, but didn’t fare terribly well at the closing. The Upper East Side duplex changed hands at $8.5 million, registering as a $7 million loss for the grandfather of pop music, who acquired the place about seven years ago for $15.5 million.

The penthouse unit in a 1967-built building designed by architect Horace Ginsbern, the co-op residence is a four-bedroom property occupying space on the fifteenth and sixteenth floors. According to public records, the yang to Lennon’s yin listed the thoroughgoing Manhattanite pad nearly a year ago for $12 million.

The property contains four bedrooms and five baths, with shared living areas culminating in a large living room. The unit features walls of oversized glass panes that allow for exceptional Central Park views. Amenities in the unit include a library and a master suite with a sitting room. Judging by public records associated with McCartney’s 2015 purchase and the recent closing, the Beatle had the residence’s floorplan dramatically overhauled after investing in it, adding a likely six- or seven-figure bill to his purchase price.

The building is exceedingly comfortable, even intimately so; it contains just 26 apartments. Amenities include a garden and a full-time doorman. The Met and the Guggenheim are within walking distance.

The Beatles are the best-selling music act of all time; record sales are said to exceed 600 million. Following the so-called British Invasion of 1964, nearly every one of their studio albums topped the Billboard chart, save for the odd album that peaked at number two. McCartney followed up with several chart-toppers of his own as a solo artist (and for a time with band Wings), the most recent of which is 2018’s Egypt Station. His most recent solo release, 2020’s McCartney III, peaked at number two.

McCartney’s popularity shows no sign of abating, nor does he show any sign of slowing down. The spry 79-year old is currently in the middle of his Got Back tour, which takes him to select destinations around the U.S. and Europe. His One on One tour, which took place in 2016 and 2017, grossed nearly $250 million.More info

This sale was completed by Sotheby’s International Realty.

Billionaire Dan Snyder Pays Record $48M for DC-Area Manor With Ties to George Washington

Billionaire Dan Snyder Pays Record $48M for DC-Area Manor With Ties to George Washington

Published: February 24, 2022 | By: American Luxury Staff

Washington Commanders owner Dan Snyder was the mystery buyer of a property near Washington, D.C., which has historical roots that date to the era of American independence. The house, a lavish and grandly realized Federal-style mansion, is somewhat recent — it was completed in 2018 — but the land it sits on was at one time owned by George Washington.

The 16.5 acres of grounds were originally part and parcel of Washington’s Mt. Vernon farm, an 1,800 acre property back at the turn of the 19th century. The Alexandria, Virginia house is a 16,000 sq. ft. monster containing seven bedrooms and ten baths. The estate’s recent changing of hands registered at $48 million, setting a new record for priciest D.C.-area residential transaction, according to multiple sources.

Some of the more striking details include the manner the pattern of the reception room floor is echoed in the room’s ceiling, the multi-pane glass panels that flood the living room and dayroom with natural light, the clerestory in the kitchen, the herringbone-pattern marble tile in the master bath, and the groin-vaulted ceiling in the bedroom hallway.

The location of the three-level house takes advantage of the land’s proximity to the Potomac; views from the home’s widow’s walk are exceptional. The mansion’s interior living spaces are as splendid as one would expect. Specialty rooms include a stone-clad lounge with full-size bar, a gym with a resistance pool and a spa, and a theater with stadium seating. Outside, gardens, lawns, and mature trees provide a suitably bucolic setting for a very blue-blooded estate.

Snyder’s net worth is $4 billion, according to Forbes.More info

This brilliant sale made by TTR Sotheby’s!

Ron Perelman Completes Sale of Hamptons Home for $84.5M

Billionaire Ron Perelman Completes Sale of Hamptons Home for $84.5M

Published: February 22, 2022 | By: American Luxury Staff

The past couple of years have seen a few remarkable Empire State properties — and more than a few priceless works of art — pop up on the open market courtesy of investor Ron Perelman. In the spring of last year, his 16,000 sq. ft. townhouse in Lenox Hill made its second appearance for sale, priced at $60 million; the 1930-vintage in-town mansion had first surfaced about eight months earlier with a connected townhouse, priced at a combined $75 million.

At about the same time the larger townhouse returned to the market, Perelman put his dreamy Hamptons retreat up for sale. The price? $115 million. A substantial sum, but the setting and location justify it. The townhouse remains for sale, but the slice of Long Island is now gone. It closed recently at $84.5 million.

The estate is one of the more impressive in East Hampton. The mansion sits on 9.5 acres of waterfront land and unfolds in a leisurely fashion. Its lengthy drive is initially flanked with mature trees before breaking into views of its groomed, grassy expanse.

As for the house, it’s an architecturally undefined sprawler with modern sympathies; interiors manage an uneasy balance between 1980s industrial-inspired luxury and beach cottage rusticity. The highlight of the shared spaces is the great room, which is outfitted with a soaring river stone fireplace accent wall that enhances the sense of scale.

The property’s list of upscale outdoor treats includes that Hamptons necessity, a Gunite pool. The 385 feet of sandy beach that concludes it ocean side is the more compelling watery amenity.

Perelman’s net worth is $2.7 billion, per Forbes.More info

 This outstanding sale was done by Sotheby’s!

From Athletes to Artists, The Splendor of Celebrity Living

There’s a reason we continue to be fascinated by celebrities. They are not only talented in their respective fields but also often emit an aura that extends beyond their professions. In the fields of fashion, music, and design, they become tastemakers, influencing culture in ways that pervade how we think about art, entertainment, and luxury.

The same is true in real estate. The properties below — once owned by iconic names from sports to high fashion — encapsulate what celebrities value in their homes: spectacular amenities, intimate living spaces, and discrete, tight security.

The homes also offer a glimpse into their former owners’ unique skills and requirements. If you’ve ever imagined filling a fashion mogul’s closets, using a legendary musician’s recording studio, or exercising in a sports superstar’s gym, you need look no further.

Fashion King’s Castle in the Sky

1 Central Park South, Apt 1809, New York, New York, 10019 United States
Price: $50,000,000 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 4 | Partial baths: 1 | Square feet: 6,050 | Price per sq. ft: $8,264 | Sotheby’s International Realty — East Side Manhattan Brokerage

This opulent corner duplex penthouse is the trophy atop the legendary Plaza Residences. With a cupola and breathtaking views of Central Park and Fifth Avenue, it is a sky palace.

Home to Tommy Hilfiger, the renowned fashion and lifestyle designer, the 12-room residence has undergone a $20 million renovation, perfectly restored to French Renaissance style. Each significantly proportioned room boasts 10- to 35-foot ceilings and exquisite custom millwork, stonework, reclaimed hardwood floors, and bespoke Nanz hardware.

The main level opens into a large gallery that leads to a grand salon with direct views of Grand Army Plaza on Fifth Avenue. The home also features an alcove library, an office with custom panels, a media room with a fireplace and a formal dining room with a wet bar. The majestic dome tea room showcases a mural painted by Hilary Knight, illustrator of the animated series “Eloise,” and overlooks Central Park. A bistro-inspired eat-in kitchen with cutting-edge appliances and a powder room complete the floor’s design.

All the opulence of the French Renaissance is on display at this iconic Manhattan address. Photography: Travis Mark

A sweeping spiral staircase leads to the upper level, where four private bedroom suites and four full bathrooms float above the city. The corner-tower master suite forms a luxurious retreat that includes a decorative fireplace, double dressing rooms, and a spa-like bathroom. Astride the Plaza’s grand dome, a private terrace overlooks Central Park. Three additional bedroom suites are whimsically themed: nautical, rock ‘n’ roll, and lavender fields.

This is an exceptional offering for the most discerning buyer seeking regal, contemporary living, and entertaining.

Image: Unprecedented views of Central Park await the next owner of this iconic piece of New York real estate.
Unprecedented views of Central Park await the next owner of this iconic piece of New York real estate.

Pro-Baller’s Waterside Courtyards

6396 North Bay Road, Miami Beach, Florida, 33141 United States
Price: $18,000,000 | Beds: 6 | Baths: 8 | Partial baths: 2 | Square feet: 11,709 | Acres: .551 | Price per sq. ft: $1,537 | ONE Sotheby’s International Realty

This sleek resort-style home merges Miami Beach’s principal luxuries: exclusivity, sun, water, and sophistication.

Located on the prestigious waterfront area of North Bay Road, the home was custom designed and built in 2009 by the Miami-based architect Carlos Prio-Touzet. It is uniquely divided into three courts, each with its own architectural character and natural features, including trees, plants, light, water, and breezes.

Most recently owned by professional basketball player Chris Bosh, the home accommodates top-shelf family living and entertaining. It boasts 11,709 square feet of living area on a half-acre lot, with courtyards for entertainment and play. Ultra-high ceilings, long walls of impact windows and doors, and clean lines invite the outdoors in to the home. The interior is a streamlined study in white and light hues that dance with the surrounding blue sky and water.

Clean modern lines complement unfettered luxury at this Miami Beach escape. Photography: Roland Valavicius

A gourmet, eat-in kitchen includes high-end appliances and hardware. The luxe master bedroom features a midnight kitchen. A hot tub, spa, separate guesthouse, and numerous bathrooms further satisfy every need or want.

On the water-facing side of the property, a stunning 37-by-17-foot heated pool emerges just steps from a covered summer kitchen. The bay (with a private boat dock) occupies the other side. Open sightlines offer unparalleled views of downtown Miami, as well as spectacular sunsets.

Country Singer’s Southwest Escape

San Antonio, Texas, 78257 United States
Price: Upon request | Beds: 4 | Baths: 6 | Partial baths: 2 | Square feet: 7,925 | Acres: 12.2 | Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty

Designed by architect Bill Tull, the one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted estate sits nestled on 12.2 secluded acres in The Dominion, an exclusive community in San Antonio. Custom-built in the spirit of Sante Fe luxury, this flawless residence offers relaxed living with remarkable views.

Tull and his crew moved to San Antonio from Arizona for two years to build the opulent estate, currently owned by the country singer George Strait. Constructed with imported adobe, endless attention to detail can be found in every inch. Upon entry, visitors bear witness to fourteen hand-sculpted fireplaces. The home is accented throughout by stained glass windows, saguaro cactus rib shutters, vanity mirrors, sconces, handcrafted tile, corbels, and a copper bar top designed by Tull.

This elegant, modern take on Sante Fe luxury offers stunning views and refined comfort. Photography: Lauren J. Keller, Luxury Real Estate Services, LLC.

Exposed adobe walls allow an appreciation for their craftsmanship. Longleaf yellow pine floors and a four-foot concrete overlay define the space. Masterfully designed to blend indoor and outdoor spaces, the home is ideal for entertaining. The master suite features separate his and hers bathrooms, each with its own entry and separate closet. Two oversize en suite guest bedrooms, each with a bath, exercise room with sauna, and a separate casita, offer a self-contained living experience. An infinity pool and a spa with a mosaic finish overlook scenes of downtown San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country. This sophisticated masterpiece encapsulates art, comfort, and exceptional views.

Rocker’s Maritime Playground

67 Roulac Lane Friday Harbor, Washington, 98250 United States
Price: $14,800,000 | Beds: 3 | Baths: 4 | Partial baths: 1 | Square feet: 11,686 | Price per sq. ft: $1,266 | Acres: 38.72 | Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty

High on an island hilltop, this airy, contemporary mansion embraces the rugged splendor of the Pacific Northwest.

Moments from Friday Harbor (known as the Hamptons of the West Coast) on San Juan Island, the property’s 39 wooded acres are set within a sheltered bay with 360 feet of waterfront and 110 feet of deep-water dock and moorage, suitable for a large yacht and seaplane.

The home’s exquisite clear cedar, hardwoods, and artisan stonework borrow from its surrounding environment. Oversize doors and windows beautifully balance interior and exterior living spaces that celebrate the island’s year-round temperate climate.

Inside, a fully appointed chef’s kitchen, two-sided fireplace, and massive great room welcome guests. The master bedroom features extensive walk-in closets and matching outdoor soaking tubs.

At this stunning mansion, the rugged appeal of the Pacific Northwest combines with unmatched amenities. Photography: AJ Canaria at PlanOmatic

Befitting its former resident, musician Steve Miller, the home is outfitted with the latest audio-visual conveniences, and its recording studio could foster future masterpieces — or become additional guests’ quarters.

A lower-level parlor, art gallery, and an enormous garage provide even more space for creative interpretation. The property is both grid-connected and self-sustaining: Its independent systems could run for up to a year on generator power.

The grounds feature multiple gathering spaces and an amphitheater. Beyond lie open pastures, native woodlands, trails, and western sunset views.

This place is at once a personal sanctuary and a gateway to the vast expanses and opportunities unique to the stunning San Juan Archipelago and local culture.

Pitcher’s Southern Fairway Fantasy

140 Augusta Court, Fairhope, Alabama, 36532 United States
Price: $1,185,000 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 5 | Partial baths: 3 | Square feet: 6,700 | Price per sq. ft: $177 | Acres: 1.18 | Kaiser Sotheby’s International Realty

This custom contemporary villa in a sunny Alabama golfing enclave combines community living with luxury, play, entertainment, and fitness.

In league with its previous owner, professional baseball player J.C. Romero, the property is on an exclusive street in Alabama’s Rock Creek Golf subdivision. It is a self-contained oasis that offers the comfort of a neighborhood and plenty of tee time on a world-class course.

Rooms on the main floor interconnect, with sweeping, open-arched walls that gracefully unite family and guests in the living room, full dining room, and a two-island eat-in kitchen.

The upstairs offers seclusion, the comfort of multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, a wet bar, and a separate master suite. The suite features a secret closet (press the wall to open), bespoke lighting, a dazzling walk-in shower, and an air tub.

This property has everything the sophisticated golfer could hope for. Photography: Bailey Chastang

There are also two offices and a playful, comfy rec-and-media room. And of course, a custom full gym includes mint equipment, a padded floor, and built-in surround sound. The home also contains built-in cabinetry for collection displays, plus high-tech security.

An enclosed sunroom overlooks an expansive pool, waterfall, and spa. The terraced patio holds a stacked-stone fire pit and a full outdoor kitchen with a Viking range grill. The property adjoins a vast, green country pasture with a thick line of trees between.

Close to the lively, classic southern town of Fairhope and Alabama’s eastern shore, this is a property rich with opportunities.

https://www.nytimes.com/paidpost/sothebys/from-athletes-to-artists-the-splendor-of-celebrity-living.html

ON THE MARKET // CHARLOTTESVILLE FEBRUARY 2022 REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

4279 Millington Road, Free Union, Virginia

Whether you’re looking to relocate or acquire the ideal second home, enticing options abound. This month we’re excited to share some amazing properties, from a jaw-dropping estate in Free Union to a cozy farmhouse in Gordonsville, this roundup proves that Charlottesville and its surrounding areas can offer it all.

0 Stony Point Road // Charlottesville, Virginia // Contact: Murdoch Matheson, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.981.7439

The details: 100 acres
Features we love: Acres of pastoral beauty and privacy offered in Albemarle County, just 4 short miles to Charlottesville. This expansive land parcel, with views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains and overlooking the Rivanna River, is the ideal site to build your forever home or weekend country retreat.

Oh Shenandoah & Caverns Country Club // Luray, Virginia // Contact: Ronda Pearl, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.760.1718

The details: 348 acres
Features we love: A stunning plot of land in scenic Luray that includes a Hal Purdy designed golf course, club house, irrigation system, maintenance barn, and 100 subdivided lots. Proximity to both Washington, DC and Charlottesville as well as breathtaking views, make this rare investment opportunity one to take note of.

Duloc – 4279 Millington Road // Free Union, Virginia // Contact: Ann Hay, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.296.0134

The details: 5 bedrooms, 7 full and 1 half bathroom, 9,851 square feet, 46.24 acres
Features we love: The exterior of this remarkable house is every bit as appealing as the well-appointed interior. Ideal for the homeowner who appreciates architectural grandeur, this home boasts custom cabinetry, coffered ceilings, marble fireplaces, and two gourmet kitchens. Formal and informal spaces throughout make it equally suited for entertaining large groups and comfortable family living.

Keswick English Country Manor – 2571 Palmer Drive // Keswick, Virginia // Contact: Murdoch Matheson or Yates McCallum, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.981.7439 or 434.296.0134

The details: 4 bedrooms, 4 full and 1 half  bathroom, 4,080 square feet, 2.7 acres
Features we love: Located in the highly desirable neighborhood of Keswick Estate, this striking home is situated on a wooded 2.7 acre lot. The traditional interior layout features a spacious main level primary bedroom off of the large light-filled living/dining room, and an eat-in kitchen that all surround a beautiful bluestone porch off the back. This inviting home designed by DGP Architects and built by Element Construction presents a modern adaptation of an English Country Manor.

585 Ragged Mountain Drive // Charlottesville, Virginia // Contact: Conor Murray, Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, 434.964.7100

The details: 5 bedrooms, 5 full and 1 partial bathroom, 8,490 square feet, 2.85 acres
Features we love: Nestled away in prestigious Ivy, this Ragged Mountain estate has the benefit of being only minutes from downtown Charlottesville, while still providing future owners maximum privacy. The interior of the residence has been completely renovated with upgraded finishes throughout, including heated floors, five fireplaces, custom cabinetry, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. Enjoy sweeping Blue Ridge Mountain views from the stone patio, take a walk through the rolling lawn, or delight in equestrian pursuits at the horse riding area and stables.

5 Islands You May Want To Move To This Year

If golden beaches, crystal clear bays, and tropical breezes are top-of-mind, turn mirages into reality with a taste of island living. Whether to serve as inspiration for permanent residency, or as a second property for easy vacationing, the homes found on these five coveted islands are the perfect getaways. 

Mallorca, Spain

Sandra CosioMallorca Sotheby’s International Realty

The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca offers the finest aspects of Mediterranean living. From historic sites of Roman and Moorish influence, to beaches with dramatic cliffside backdrops, to the city of Palma’s delectable cuisine and vibrant nightlife, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Mallorca, and this five-bedroom contemporary villa in Port d’Andratx is the ideal base for exploration. Close to the harbor and sailing club, this three-story home offers ocean vistas throughout, including from the expansive terrace with swimming pool. Indoors, amenities include a heated pool, sauna, spa, gym, wine cellar, and cinema for endless entertainment. 

Crete, Greece

Despina LaouGreece Sotheby’s International Realty

Head to Crete, Greece’s biggest island, for sun, sand, and signature Greek dishes and drinks served at lively tavernas and cafes. This charming six-bedroom Villa Phaedra is the perfect property for Greek island living, with an elevated vantage offering Aegean Sea views, a heated outdoor infinity pool and surrounding gardens, and a private beach mere minutes away. Inside, natural finishes and eco-friendly materials—including marble, Cretan stone, and wood—complement cool tones to create an upscale and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for unwinding.

British Virgin Islands

Lu ValadeBritish Virgin Islands Sotheby’s International Realty

The Beach House—a precisely named villa on the eight-square-mile Virgin Gorda, the third largest island in the British Virgin Islands—provides an opportunity for effortless Caribbean living. The six-bedroom property is steps away from Oil Nut Bay’s turquoise waters and palm-tree lined white sand beaches. Fancy a bit of island exploration? Follow the trails in Little Fort National Park, hike to Gorda Peak, snorkel through coral reefs, or visit Spanish Town for excellent shopping and fresh seafood dining. 

Mahé, Seychelles

Tobias SchulzeCologne Sotheby’s International Realty

Twenty-seven bedrooms and bathrooms, 60,000 interior square feet, and almost 10 acres of natural coastline—this exquisite property on Mahé, the largest of Seychelles’ 115 archipelago islands, is the ultimate property for luxury vacationing and hosting. Bel Ombre is a Bali-inspired, secluded sanctuary featuring multiple natural stone swimming pools, a spa and wellness zone, chef-designed professional kitchen, and dramatic Indian Ocean views. It’s also surrounded by lush vegetation and is adjacent to Anse Majore National Park, where hiking and boating excursions lead to majestic wild beaches.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Chaiyuth BoonlertList Sotheby’s International Realty

You can’t get closer to the water than at Sea Sunset Pool Villa on Thailand’s Koh Samui island—a coveted location with infamous beaches and wildlife. In addition to sea panoramas that come with exquisite sunrises and sunsets, the four-storey contemporary home offers a private salt pool system, garden, and cinema. Activities are plentiful too, including yoga, cooking classes, scuba diving, boating, and even golf.

Escaping to tropical climates becomes even more enticing knowing that properties like these await on incredible islands. Whether it’s quintessential Caribbean beaches, vast Mediterranean views, private verdant oases, or endless activities, island living is waiting to be enjoyed. 

For island living that’s easily accessible, go inside a Turks and Caicos property with a private runway.

Living The High Life: 5 Fabulous Penthouses

From Manhattan to Houston, these four enviable homes are perched on their buildings’ highest floors, where they enjoy consummate privacy, vistas, and style along with amenities that go above and beyond.

Sophistication and Sea Views

West Palm Beach, Florida | Christine GibbonsSotheby’s International Realty – Palm Beach Brokerage

Sleek modern style and unobstructed views of the ocean and Intracoastal Waterway are hallmarks of this rare three-bedroom penthouse high above famed Flagler Drive. In the open-plan living and dining area as well as the custom-designed streamlined kitchen, walls of windows reveal an enviable outlook. Just outside, an expansive east-facing balcony allows for alfresco enjoyment of sunshine and sweeping vistas. The desirable Plaza building offers round-the-clock security, a door attendant, and valet and concierge services.

The Clock Tower Condominium

Brooklyn, New York | The Heyman TeamSotheby’s International Realty – Downtown Manhattan Brokerage

Impeccably renovated, this sleek, streamlined 3,208-square-foot penthouse in Dumbo’s Clock Tower Condominium building enjoys 360-degree views of Manhattan landmarks through its glorious walls of windows. It features an open-plan living area, dining area, and chef’s kitchen; three bedrooms and full baths; a light-filled library; and a bar. Contemporary amenities and conveniences include Nest thermostats, Control4 surround sound speakers, LED lighting, electric window shades, top-tier appliances, and spa-caliber fixtures. Residents benefit from the building’s 24-hour concierge service, well-equipped gym, roof deck, and storage center.

Atop the Bristol

Houston, Texas | Ina PerlmanMartha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty 

Amid the dazzling towers of Houston, this two-level penthouse in Houston’s Bristol condominium building offers walls of windows and wraparound balconies for appreciating views that are captivating day and night. It features a double-height living room wrapped in glass, a formal dining room, and three bedrooms, all with dramatic details and finishes. The building’s numerous amenities include three garage parking spaces, auxiliary storage, concierge and valet service, party facilities, a fitness center, a pool and spa, tennis courts, and a private park.

Light-Filled and Lofty

New York, New York | Jodi RothmanSotheby’s International Realty – Downtown Manhattan Brokerage

Exemplifying distinctive contemporary living, this artful cooperative penthouse just blocks from Madison Square Park is replete with intriguing angles and materials and floods of wonderful natural light. Its effortless floor plan includes a living area with an impressive double-height wall of glass and a door to a private planted terrace, a lofty dining room, a windowed kitchen, two bedrooms, two full baths, a study or studio, and storage space. Pets are welcome here.

Rare Greenwich Aerie

Greenwich, Connecticut | The Claroni & Perry TeamSotheby’s International Realty – Greenwich Brokerage

This lavish contemporary penthouse is a true rarity in downtown Greenwich. Highlights include a fluid living and dining area, a kitchen with Gaggenau and Miele appliances and a design scheme by the illustrious Italian firm Valcucine; a handsome library or office with walls of useful built-ins; a primary bedroom with a generous walk-in closet, dual baths, and a terrace; two guest bedroom suites; and enchanting views from every window. Ownership also affords two underground parking spaces and three storage units.

Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com

Decent Exposure: Four Homes Featuring Exposed Brick

From chic urban oases in Manhattan to estates on the leafy thoroughfares of Houston, these homes prove that exposed brick is a time-honored way to infuse a home with history and character.

Chic Tribeca Penthouse

New York, New York | Gina M. Kuhlenkamp & Olga Reindlova ”Neulist,” Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

This sophisticated three-bedroom penthouse on a classic cobblestone street is the perfect backdrop for stylish living and entertaining. Its distinctive floating staircase leads to a terrace offering secluded space for alfresco lounging, cooking, and dining. The open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area boasts Boffi cabinets, top-tier appliances, built-in wine chillers, and oversized arched windows showcasing views of the city and the Hudson River—all accented by striking exposed brick, which also makes an appearance in the primary bedroom and bath.

Elegant Briargrove Manor

Houston, Texas | Brian SpackMartha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

This inviting Houston home is French Norman in inspiration but thoroughly modern in design and amenities. While the interiors—a formal dining room, a study, an open great room and kitchen, and a luxurious primary suite—are sleek, bright, and elegant, the façade and an enviable loggia with an outdoor kitchen are accented with rugged, earthy exposed brick that is echoed in the unique archway that divides the formal and casual living spaces.

Iconic Manhattan Loft

New York, New York | Jeremy V. Stein & Marc FicheraSotheby’s International Realty – Downtown Manhattan Brokerage

This timeless loft in the Canal Greenwich Condominium building—formerly a Tetley Tea warehouse—offers a rare opportunity to live a life of effortless open ease and flexibility. Highlights include a sunny living room; large open kitchen with a dining area, a spacious pantry, and top-caliber appliances; three bedrooms; Lutron lighting; central heating and air conditioning; and a private outdoor area. Stylistic elements range from west-facing floor-to-ceiling windows and interior concrete columns to original exposed brick walls in public and private spaces.

Modern Houston Haven

Houston, Texas | Kiki WilsonMartha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

On a tree-lined street in prestigious Tanglewood, this striking modern five-bedroom residence is steps from the Houston Country Club and offers an array of alluring spaces for living, dining, lounging, and entertaining. Stately brick plays a major role in the distinctive façade as well as the interiors—from a foyer with a sweeping staircase to the living room’s fireplace and a breakfast area enjoying views of the lush backyard and swimming pool.

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