Luxury Portfolio International Magazine Vol. 15 No.2
The World’s Most Beautiful Things
The World’s Most Beautiful Things
1stDibs, a leading online marketplace for extraordinary design, connects those seeking the most beautiful things on earth to highly coveted sellers and makers in vintage, antique and contemporary furniture, home decor, art, fine jewelry, watches and fashion from all over the world.
1stDibs, a leading online marketplace for extraordinary design, connects those seeking the most beautiful things on earth to highly coveted sellers and makers in vintage, antique and contemporary furniture, home decor, art, fine jewelry, watches and fashion from all over the world.
For this issue of Luxury Portfolio magazine, it’s all in the details. In our experience, luxury often lies in the little things. When each component is thoughtfully considered and flawlessly executed, they combine to create something very big indeed.
This effect is exemplified by the fabulous properties featured in these pages, including an all-in-one estate community in South Africa where every aspect of life feels taken care of and a Romantic-era escape in Portugal where the elegant plasterwork intertwines with the leafy views out each window. In Chicago, a Gilded Age mansion’s mahogany woodwork and stained glass showcase masterful historic restoration, while an old grain mill in Canada — complete with stone walls, plank floors and original mill equipment intact — is a shining specimen of creative reuse.
We also explore how special design elements, from simple to surprising, can elevate whichever type of place you call home. Interiors experts show how to wow anyone who comes through your door with statement-making entryway décor. Light fixtures are an important focal point in any space, and we delve into the story behind the iconic, detailsobsessed, Danish modern lighting brand Louis Poulsen. Other top names, from fashion to automotive, have been getting into the real estate game, adding a dose of style and status to branded buildings. And architects around the world are working with nature rather than against it, incorporating pieces of the existing environment, such as living trees and running water, in their work.
Details don’t always have to be material; they’re also found in interactions with others and impeccable service received, whether on holiday or at home. We look at how high-end hotels are making a comeback after years of the vacation rental takeover thanks to their attention to every little thing, from cuisine and wellness offerings to facilitating authentic experiences for their guests. In rural Argentina, estancias give visitors a taste of the country’s famed horse culture along with a warm family welcome. Another comeback is found in the at-home butler, now trained to help with 21st-century needs.
To try focusing on the minutiae yourself, we have a collection of beautiful pieces to adorn the dining table for your next dinner party — a perfect time to practice the subtleties of genuine hospitality, too. You’ll find that all of those seemingly minor details can add up to something truly memorable.
LISA KLEIN POWERS Managing Editor
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STAYING GOLD
A pedigreed mansion stands proud in one of Chicago’s toniest neighborhoods
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EXCEPTIONAL LISTINGS
A global roundup of outstanding luxury properties
16 IT’S ONLY NATURAL
Innovative architecture incorporates environmental elements such as living trees and streams
22
SELLING THE STORY
Luxury brands are putting their stamp on real estate, attracting a global buyer base
136 BACK YARD
The view from a lakeside villa in Italy
DESIGN
40 WITH THE GRAIN
An old mill in rural Canada has been refined for modern luxury living
44 GRAND ENTRANCE
Entryways that make an impression feature design elements that wow — and tell a story
48
LIGHTING THE WAY
Louis Poulsen lamps have upheld their Danish modern icon status for more than a century
TRAVEL
70
STORYBOOK SPLENDOR
A historic villa captures the royal spirit of Sintra, Portugal
74
ROOM WITH A POINT OF VIEW
High-end hotels are upping the travel experience with cultural connections and flawless service
80
SADDLE UP
Rural estancias in Argentina invite guests to celebrate horse and gaucho culture
LIFESTYLE
100
LIVING WELL
A private sanctuary win South Africa resides within an unrivaled estate
104
BEHIND THE BOWTIE
Butlers of today train to assist modern households with entertaining, organization and beyond
108
SETTING THE TONE
Tackle the art of tablescaping with these posh picks
Cover photo courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens
Images, top left to right: Louis Poulsen, Raffles Hotels & Resorts, Delfino Sisto Legnani and Alessandro Saletta at DSL Studio/Carlo Ratti Associati; bottom left to right: Louis Poulsen, Estancia Los Potreros, 1stDibs
ARGENTINA
AUSTRALIA
AUSTRIA
BAHAMAS
BARBADOS
BELGIUM
BELIZE
BRAZIL
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
BULGARIA
CANADA
CAYMAN ISLANDS
COSTA RICA
CYPRUS
CZECH REPUBLIC
FRANCE
GERMANY
GREECE
IRELAND
ITALY
MAURITIUS
MEXICO
NEW ZEALAND
PORTUGAL
SAINT BARTHÉLEMY
SOUTH AFRICA
SPAIN
SWITZERLAND
TURKS AND CAICOS
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
UNITED KINGDOM
UNITED STATES
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
AMELIA BOO Publisher, Director, Social Media and Luxury Communications
LISA KLEIN POWERS Managing Editor, Luxury Publications
KIRAN GILL Staff Writer, Luxury Publications
KATIE FELLER
SHELBY HENDERSON Member Services Specialists
DAN PEROS Vice President, Global Member Engagement
LYNDA VAN DUERM Creative Director
ABBY GOODSON
LISA BARTLING Graphic Designers
PAUL BOOMSMA President, Chief Executive Officer
KATE REISINGER Chief Operations Officer
CHRIS DIETZ President, Global Operations
JESSICA EDGERTON
Chief Legal Officer, Executive Vice President, Industry and Learning
TRIPTI KASAL Senior Vice President, Member Engagement
ERIKA LABUTKA Vice President, Operations
JENNIFER HARDING
TAMARA MCHUGH
SARA NELSON MCKITRICK PAT POOLE Vice Presidents, Member Engagement
JENNIFER DOOLAN
BILLY EKOFO
TASOS STAVROU Vice Presidents, Global Business Development
ROBIN LASURE Vice President, Global Communications
EFFIE ATSAVES Vice President, Marketing
PAUL STEC Vice President, Technology
JOHN GRELYAK Executive Director, Digital Technology
ABIGAIL DA SILVA LOWIS VALDIVIESO Directors, Global Business Development
ELISE DAUGHHETEE Director, Human Resources
DARLA LENDMAN Director, Events and Experiences
MICHAEL GARBER Manager, Member Data and Experience
BLAKE CRANE
EMILY FOSTER
ANTONIO KONJA
GINGER MARTIN
BRADEN POOLE Member Experience Team
Freeze Gravity INHIBIT
HIGH DEFINTION LIFTING CREAM
TIGHTENING AND PLUMPING MOISTURIZER with GravZero Fusion
REAL ESTATE
STAYING GOLD
A Gilded Age gem with architectural pedigree shines with updates for today’s Chicago elite
By AMELIA BOO
At the glittering corner of Dearborn Street and Delaware Place in Chicago’s historic Gold Coast district stands a rare architectural jewel: The Thompson House, a 13,400-square-foot Gilded Age masterpiece originally built in 1888. This grand, red-rock mansion, with its imposing presence looming over Washington Square Park, is now a city-designated historic landmark. The stately Romanesque revival home encapsulates the spirit of a city reborn from fire and forged in ambition.
As one of the few remaining residential works designed by the iconic 19th-century architecture firm Cobb and Frost, who are responsible for some of Chicago’s most enduring buildings, it serves as a living monument to the city’s storied past — and a celebration of contemporary living at its most refined.
When the Great Chicago Fire tore through the city in 1871, it unknowingly laid the groundwork for one of the most remarkable urban transformations in American history. From the ashes rose the shape of a new Chicago, whose pioneering architecture set the national stage for “the new city.” In the decades that followed, a migration of Chicago’s wealthiest families
reshaped the city’s north side — none more influential than retail magnate Potter Palmer and his wife, Bertha, whose relocation from Hyde Park on the south side to a short stretch near Lake Michigan quickly catalyzed the Gold Coast as a haven for Chicago’s elite.
By the time John Howland Thompson, a prominent attorney, commissioned his residence there in 1888, a mere 17 years after the fire, the neighborhood was already cemented as the epicenter of upper-crust Chicago. The Latin School, the crème-dela-crème Astor Street District and opulent mansions defined the area, attracting titans of industry and society — of which there were many in late-19th-century Chicago. The Gold Coast was no longer up and coming; it was the place to be.
The Thompson House reveals the lavish tastes of Gilded Age high society, cheekily dubbed America’s aristocracy. The same visionary architects behind the Newberry Library just around the corner and The University of Chicago in Hyde Park cemented its place in the epoch of iconic turn-of-the-century local architecture. Its imposing red façade is softened by graceful curves and elegant architectural ornamentation. But it’s what lies within that truly dazzles.
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From 1938 to 2006, the Thompson House served as offices for the Scottish Rite Cathedral, weaving it even more deeply into the neighborhood’s historic fabric.
By the early 2000s, however, the home had fallen into a state of dignified disrepair, a beautiful shell awaiting resurrection — and the right caretaker. Enter a visionary owner and an eight-year, multi-million-dollar restoration project where no detail too small was overlooked. Today, the Thompson House seamlessly blends old-world craftsmanship with 21st-century functionality. It’s the perfect picture of modern luxury.
“No expense was spared in its transformation,” says Millie Rosenbloom, the listing agent with Baird & Warner. “Every inch reflects unparalleled attention to detail.”
The mansion features full mahoganypaneled rooms, silk wallcoverings, hand-carved fireplaces in Italian marble and Pakistani onyx, and a majestic, curved staircase crowned by a custom stainedglass dome — a work of art unto itself.
The woodwork, crafted from solid, highly sought-after Honduras mahogany,
is unmatched in scope and detail, from hand-carved columns in the grand parlor to the intricate balustrades painstakingly modeled after the originals.
“The home was conceived to host unforgettable formal dinners and events,” Ms. Rosenbloom adds. “Its dramatic spaces feel both stately and warm.”
While honoring the home’s period details, the renovation also introduced modern amenities worthy of the most discerning resident. A full smart-home system manages lighting, audio, security and climate control.
An elevator services all levels, while the lower level is dedicated entirely to leisure, including a commercialgrade bar, in-wall wine display, media lounge and an opulent spa retreat complete with a steam room, sauna, rain shower and jetted tub. A standout feature? The one-of-a-kind Muranoglass mosaic mural with an integrated waterfall adds a layer of artistic grandeur rarely found in even the most exclusive residences.
TODAY’S GOLD COAST remains true to its legacy: A home to Chicago’s most distinguished architecture, culture and society. Just steps from Lake Michigan and the bustling Magnificent Mile, the neighborhood continues to attract those who value both heritage and sophistication. “Over a century later, that legacy remains,” Ms. Rosenbloom affirms. “This is a home designed not just to admire, but to live in — gracefully and luxuriously.”
Whether hosting dignitaries in the soaring great room, enjoying a glass of wine in the serene, walled courtyard or relaxing in the private spa, the Thompson House offers a lifestyle that is both rooted in history and elevated by modern comfort.
With its stunning combination of provenance, architectural history, artistry and cutting-edge upgrades, this residence is more than a home, it’s a testament to Chicago’s resilience, elegance and enduring grandeur.
Location CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, U.S. Price
USD $18,500,000
luxuryportfolio.com
WEB ID: QIIE
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6 The red-rock home was designed by the same firm as the Palmer Mansion
A lower level features entertainment and relaxation with seating, a bar and spa
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7 The grand entrance welcomes guests in style
A custom stained-glass dome is the jewel atop a stunning staircase
EXCEPTIONAL LISTINGS
You are invited on a grand tour of lavish real estate listings around the globe, courtesy of Luxury Portfolio
BY EMMA ROSE LORENZEN
Lurin, Saint Barthélemy | Price upon request | WEB ID: WFNN
Poised on the Caribbean Sea, Villa Peace of Mind reinterprets West Indies tradition with bungalow-style pavilions, bespoke interiors and expansive terraces that reveal sweeping ocean views amid lush, tropical gardens.
Ézy-sur-Eure, France | EUR €2,050,000 | WEB ID: LHKN
Once part of the storied Château d’Anet estate, this neoclassical folly, reborn in 1933 and inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles, unfolds in quiet splendor across formal gardens and reflecting pools along the Eure River.
Malibu, California, U.S. | USD $15,750,000 | WEB ID: GAUL
Tucked along the sands of Escondido Beach, this serene midcentury escape captures the essence of coastal calm with sculptural interiors, sun-soaked decks and a striking plaster pool just steps from the surf.
New York, New York, U.S.
USD $39,500,000 | WEB ID: YEJU
In Manhattan’s Lenox Hill neighborhood, this limestone beaux-arts mansion by John H. Duncan spans 18,000 square feet of Gilded Age grandeur, with coffered ceilings, sweeping staircases and terraces overlooking Central Park.
Greenwich, Connecticut, U.S.
In the coveted Riverside neighborhood, this elegant, six-bedroom Colonial blends classic architecture with refined coastal living, offering a pool, porches and flowering grounds near the water’s edge and Greenwich Yacht Club.
IT’S ONLY NATURAL
Biophilic architecture that includes existing environmental elements more deeply connects a home and its surroundings
By LINSEY STONCHUS
seamlessly blends with nature at Bridge House in Lithuania
courtesy of ArchLAB Studios
True luxury increasingly embraces a deeper connection with the environment, moving beyond mere sustainability to emphasize the well-being that results from proximity to the natural world. Accordingly, biophilia, although long a guiding principle in architecture, is gaining more traction. In some cases, architects have taken the concept of connection to the Earth a step further by imagining awe-inspiring homes that incorporate natural and sometimes living elements, such as trees, rocks and water, as focal points and features within the home. They function not as a spectacle, but rather a foundational and informing element of the property.
Take, for example, a traditional farmhouse near Parma, Italy, that was expanded to include a 60-year-old ficus tree named Alma, which carried a history and life of her own. The tree stands more than 32 feet tall and is surrounded by terraces, each offering a unique view.
“The tree was named Alma by the Mutti family; it is a word that, in Italian, evokes ‘soul’ or ‘spirit,’” says professor Carlo Ratti, founding partner and chairman at Italian architecture firm Carlo Ratti Associati. “It seemed fitting for what this tree has become: a living, breathing presence at the heart of the home. The ficus australis offers generous shade and a natural cooling effect, yes — but beyond its environmental performance, it embodies something deeper.
Alma grows tall inside a specially designed farmhouse addition in Italy
Photos by Delfino Sisto Legnani and Alessandro Saletta at DSL Studio, courtesy of Carlo Ratti Associati
“As you move through the home, each level offers a different perspective on Alma: Sometimes you are beneath her canopy, other times at eye level with her branches. She anchors not just the architecture, but the emotional experience of the home.”
While such properties are increasingly sought-after today, public reaction was once quite mixed. Frey House II in Palm Springs, California, designed by renowned architect Albert Frey in 1964, is now widely admired. However, during its planning phase, it was initially deemed “crazy” by the town’s city hall. Perched on San Jacinto Mountain, the home offers sweeping views of Coachella Valley through its expansive glass windows. Inside, a prominent boulder serves as both a wall and room divider.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater in Mill Run, Pennsylvania, garnered critical acclaim even before its completion in 1939. Inspired by the scenic waterfall on its Appalachian plateau lot, Wright chose to build the home directly over it — a departure from the clients’ original desire to feature the waterfall as a view. But the effect was striking, making the waterfall appear to cascade literally from the mansion. Prior to its completion, the design had already been featured on the cover of Time and inspired an exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Ultimately, Fallingwater was voted the “best all-time work of American architecture” by the American Institute of Architects.
“We are guests who want to live in this place,” says Marijus Vroblevičius, one of the lead architects at ArchLAB in Lithuania, of each pristine plot. “We always try to adapt to the current situation and not dictate.”
The studio’s Bridge House in Vilnius is named for the “bridge” that sits over the property’s creek and connects the two sides of the residence. Reeds and riparian plants fill the space around the creek, highlighting and enhancing its effect. Multiple trees also grow through the building, initiated by the nature-loving clients who did not want them to be cut down in the construction of their home. The façade of grey stone and a terrace of wooden planks strengthen the connection to the surrounding forest.
“The nearby pine forest and flowing creek became a large part of the inspiration,” Mr. Vroblevičius says. “The goal was not to spoil the surrounding environment, but to blend it into the existing environment as naturally as possible. Designing the house was a real challenge, as a creek flows through the center of the plot. The choice was either to design a two-story building on one part of the plot, or to divide the house into parts across both sides. Since the clients were open to challenges and our ideas, we suggested moving part of the house to the other side of the creek, connecting the buildings with a bridge. In this way, the creek became not only a decoration, but also an integral part of the house.”
Professor Ratti adopted a similar philosophy in his design of The Greenary, the aforementioned Italian farmhouse.
Photo by Leonas Garbačauskas, courtesy of ArchLAB Studios 4
A creek runs between the two connecting sides of Bridge House
Architecture pioneer Frank Lloyd Wright’s work took many cues from nature — in Fallingwater’s case, including it stock.adobe.com 5
The boulder wall in architect Albert Frey’s Frey House II is on view during Palm Springs’ annual Modernism Week
by David A. Lee, courtesy of Modernism Week 6
“I often return to Carlo Scarpa’s beautiful provocation: ‘Between a tree and a house, choose the tree,’” he says. “In this project, we tried to imagine a third path: Not choosing between the two, but allowing tree and house to grow together, with dialogue and mutual respect. Placing Alma at the heart of the home meant reimagining the architecture entirely. That idea led us to organize the house into seven terraced levels, three above the entrance and three below, creating a fluid, dynamic progression of spaces that orbit around Alma. We chose soil-infused flooring and organic finishes that make the home feel less like a container and more like an extension of the surrounding landscape.”
Photo
To maintain an uninterrupted view of the meadow outside, the main level of the farmhouse is set several feet into the ground, seamlessly connecting the interior with the outdoors. “The design seeks to harmonize with Parma’s quiet rhythms, starting by respecting the farmhouse’s traditional volume, which is typical of the region,” professor Ratti explains. “Collaborating with landscape architect Paolo Pejrone, a legend in his field, we shaped the grounds with native trees and followed the local alberature — a living, layered approach to greenery that feels deeply rooted in the place.”
Guatemalan firm Solis Colomer Arquitectos designed Casa Chinkara in Guatemala City with a similar respect for its surroundings. The home integrates the forest into an interior courtyard. A strategically placed opening in the ceiling allows a tree to flourish within the home, providing natural light, wind and rain, while also facilitating air circulation throughout the space.
“The few remaining forests in and around Guatemala City hold an increasing significance,” says Oscar Sologaistoa, the firm’s commercial manager. “As they disappear, they become even more precious. This home is a direct response to that urgency —
a celebration of what remains. Rather than turning away from the forest, the project embraces it fully, honoring it with respect, admiration and gratitude. The design seeks to frame, protect and engage with the surrounding landscape as much as possible, making the forest not just a backdrop, but an essential participant in the life of the home.
“You feel the breeze, hear the rain and see water fall onto the timber decking, which features hidden gaps to allow for drainage,” Mr. Sologaistoa adds. “The flooring material continues seamlessly from the indoor space to the open courtyard, reinforcing the illusion of a unified, floating platform that exists in both realms simultaneously. The experience is immersive and unconventional, an architectural narrative that invites inhabitants to reconnect with nature in a tactile and sensorial way.”
Designing such projects presents numerous challenges. Architects face the complex task of ensuring the integrity of the homes while also providing space for living trees or flowing water. The process requires plenty of trial and error, customtailoring mechanical systems and structural elements to suit everyone’s needs.
“Adaptive reuse combined with biophilic design requires patience, experimentation and a readiness to go back to the drawing board,” professor Ratti says of the process. “Unlike the rigid machines of 20th-century architecture, today’s buildings can behave more like living systems: responsive, adaptive and alive.”
Mr. Vroblevičius highlights tree roots as an additional consideration. While properties are typically cleared before construction, Bridge House’s foundation was designed to coexist with the trees, preserving them without compromising the structure. The result is a home that showcases a future where architecture and the environment are harmoniously integrated.
“WHEN YOU ESCAPE from the traffic, the fast city life, nature provides peace,” he adds. “The babbling, flowing creek recharges your energy. The local neighborhood cats visit daily to lie down on the terrace in the shade of the trees. The house radiates a calming energy. It feels as if you were sitting on a footbridge and enjoying complete peace.”
Famed biologist and naturalist E.O. Wilson conceptualized biophilia as “the connections that human beings subconsciously seek with the rest of life.” This has been a guiding principle for professor Ratti.
“Too often, it is diluted and used as mere decoration, masking less authentic intentions,” he says. “For me, biophilia means more than planting trees or vines on façades. It is about weaving the logic of nature into architecture itself. The Greenary acts like a living organism, balancing the needs of humans, animals and trees alike — breathing, changing and evolving.”
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A midcentury gem in New Jersey was built right over a natural stream Search YMWM at luxuryportfolio.com
Image courtesy of Weichert Realtors
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Guatemala’s warm weather allows for an opening in the ceiling for the sun to reach a living tree in Casa Chinkara
Casa Chinkara invites the Guatemalan forest and plenty of natural light inside
Photo by SC Goyzueta, courtesy of Solis Colomer Arquitectos
Photo by SC Goyzueta, courtesy of Solis Colomer Arquitectos
SELLING THE STORY
Branded residences are a beacon of identity and trust for buyers in global cities
Once a niche category dominated by hotel-affiliated condos, branded residences have rapidly evolved into a global force in luxury real estate. Today, the brand behind a building can be as influential as its architecture — infusing projects with lifestyle identity, emotional resonance and a powerful sense of trust and recognition across global markets.
Whether it’s a fashion house in Dubai, an automotive icon in London or a legacy hospitality brand expanding in Mexico, these developments are redefining how luxury is packaged, perceived and purchased. For buyers, a familiar name delivers more than style — it delivers a promise.
“Branded residences offer instant identity, credibility and global recognition — and that’s transformed the way real estate is marketed and sold,” says Alicia Cervera Lamadrid, managing partner and principal of Miami, Florida-based Cervera Real Estate and a pioneer in the space. “Buyers know what to expect, and that sense of assurance drives demand.”
Cervera’s team has led sales for some of the Magic City’s most notable branded residential projects, including the now sold-out Aston Martin Residences, Origin Residences by Artefacto, located in Bay Harbor Islands, and Cassia Residences in Coral Gables, which features branded interiors by RH (formerly Restoration Hardware).
While each project brings its own story to life, they all share a common foundation: a name that stands for more than style — it stands for trust.
“When we began selling Aston Martin Residences, it was the brand’s first-ever residential project,” Ms. Cervera Lamadrid recalls. “Within hours, if not days, the world knew it was happening. Hundreds of publications picked it up globally. Imagine what it would’ve cost to manufacture that kind of reach. That’s the value of a brand.”
But not just any brand will do. “You have to pick a brand that connects to the consumer and the product you’re building,” she adds. “The wrong brand can confuse or alienate your audience, essentially acting as a red light. The right brand, on the other hand, sends a green light to potential buyers.”
At Cassia Residences — where units are turnkey, fully furnished by RH — the appeal is immediate. Buyers are drawn to the effortless cohesion, the elevated details and the promise of taste and refinement baked into the very walls. Origin by Artefacto similarly brings the bold aesthetic of Brazilian design to life, making a statement about craftsmanship, culture and curated living.
Branded residences, such as the new Origin Residences by Artifacto in Miami, offer an all-in-one lifestyle package Search GOWU on luxuryportfolio.com
“These brands speak not just to lifestyle, but to identity,” Ms. Cervera Lamadrid explains. “They give buyers the chance to align with a world they relate to — or aspire to.”
Branded residences, she notes, appeal to a distinct type of buyer: globally mobile, quality-focused and attuned to both design and service. “The further you are from home, the more you gravitate toward the known,” she adds. “If you’re moving to a city like Shanghai and you hear there’s a St. Regis or an Aston Martin residence, you instantly feel a sense of trust.”
That’s especially true for international buyers, a cornerstone of the Miami market. “South Americans love brands,” Ms. Cervera Lamadrid says. “So do many Europeans and Mexicans. It’s a global phenomenon. The fear of the unknown is real; brands help alleviate that.”
And when it comes to branded versus unbranded developments, buyer preferences often reveal an intriguing split. Ms. Cervera Lamadrid observes that while some are drawn to the cachet of a recognizable name, proudly aligning themselves with certain global monikers, others lean toward a more understated approach.
She notes growing interest in unbranded or quietly branded projects, such as The Residences at 1428 Brickell, which
Cervera Real Estate exclusively represents. Marketed as a private sanctuary within the iconic Miami skyline, the focus here is on craftsmanship and curation — from Arclinea kitchens to B&B Italia furnishings — but without a marquee brand name on the façade. Often associated with the rising “stealth wealth” demographic, these buyers value exceptional design and craftsmanship but don’t feel the need for a label to validate it.
The most successful residences on the branded side offer more than a logo, delivering a complete lifestyle vision.
“Two critical elements are quality and service,” Ms. Cervera Lamadrid says. “Some brands, like The Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis, excel at both. Others might lead with design, like Armani or Artefacto.”
Interestingly, personality matters, too. “When we worked with Marek Reichman, the chief creative officer of Aston Martin, he became a spokesperson for the brand,” she adds. “His passion was contagious. He could talk about the leather, the door handles, the lighting. It created an emotional connection for the buyer.”
This level of storytelling helps transform real estate into a tangible expression of brand philosophy. Even for brands not
traditionally associated with housing, it’s about translating design values into a residential experience.
This doesn’t work, however, if a brand doesn’t know who they are. “That can create an identity crisis,” Ms. Cervera Lamadrid points out. “We saw that with some projects in the past. If the brand doesn’t have a strong sense of its audience, it dilutes the product and confuses the buyer.”
Looking back, Ms. Cervera Lamadrid views the rise of branded residences as a natural evolution from the early days of “starchitect”-led towers to today’s immersive, lifestyle-driven brand collaborations.
“I remember the first time I worked with Philippe Starck on SLS Brickell, which he designed,” she recalls. “Philippe was already globally known for the Delano Hotel in Miami Beach but, until then, the only private residence he’d designed was for the French prime minister. Suddenly, with the SLS, buyers — especially in Europe — were saying, ‘This is a design I recognize. This is something I can buy into.’ That connection, that familiarity, is everything.
“You need a persona to build a story around,” she adds. “The brand becomes the anchor; it gives the building identity and credibility from day one.”
MIAMI’S UNIQUE MIX of energy, diversity and global attention makes it the ideal testing ground for branded concepts.
“The reality is Miami works,” Ms. Cervera Lamadrid says. “We’re constantly evolving, creating and leading. Whatever we do here tends to ripple out.”
Whether it’s a tower bearing the name of a luxury automaker, a home wrapped in the furnishings of a beloved design brand or a subtle, unbranded residence filled with world-class components that take cues from its branded counterparts, Miami continues to lead the global conversation around what it means to live with style, story and identity.
“Brands help carry the message,” Ms. Cervera Lamadrid says. “They invite some people in — and they signal to others it’s not for them. That’s part of the magic. When you get it right, a brand doesn’t just decorate a building, it defines it.”
Delray Beach, FL, USA
USD $29,900,000
PREMIER ESTATE PROPERTIES, INC.
Pascal Liguori Estate Group — +1 866 502 5441
pleg@premierestateproperties.com
Search WKAF on luxuryportfolio.com
Completely reimagined by Courchene Development with uncompromising attention to quality, this custom estate is across from Delray Beach’s dune-fringed beachfront, commanding serene ocean views from almost every room. Some details include a circular, glass-railed staircase that winds around the three-story foyer, glass-fronted wine display and pavilion viewing platform by the athletic courts.
Winnetka, IL, USA
USD $29,900,000
@PROPERTIES CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
Jena Radnay — +1 312 925 9899
jradnay@atproperties.com
Search HADE on luxuryportfolio.com
Naples, FL, USA
USD $23,500,000
WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE
Andrew Christopher — +1 239 821 3560
andrew.christopher@raveis.com
Search MUZG on luxuryportfolio.com
Lake Forest, IL, USA
USD $27,500,000
@PROPERTIES CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
Ann Lyon — +1 847 828 9991
alyon@atproperties.com
Search BZTS on luxuryportfolio.com
Barrington Hills, IL, USA
USD $22,000,000
@PROPERTIES CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE Mimi Noyes/John Morrison — +1 847 421 2836
miminoyes@atproperties.com
Search QSSH on luxuryportfolio.com
St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
PRICE UPON REQUEST
SEA GLASS PROPERTIES
Karye Carney — +1 340 513 1960
karye@holidayhomesvi.com
Search FRAS on luxuryportfolio.com
Tucked in the heart of Cruz Bay, Blue Rock is a new, off-grid luxury home combining modern design with top-tier sustainability. Powered by 10 Tesla Powerwalls and five cisterns, it offers full self-sufficiency. Features include a chef’s kitchen with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, private primary suite with elevator and garage, guest wing with three bedrooms, gym and kitchenette. Floor-to-ceiling glass opens to a beach-entry infinity pool, lounge area and sweeping views.
Villa “ZENITH” is located in one of the most tax-efficient municipalities on Lake Zurich’s prestigious left shore, combining privacy, status and breathtaking panoramic views. This historic villa has been meticulously restored to the highest standards and expanded with a sleek, contemporary living floor. It features 16 spacious rooms, exquisite materials, generous terraces, a manicured garden with mature trees, outdoor pool with pool house and private spa and fitness area. A separate apartment offers ideal space for guests, staff or multigenerational living.
Kilchberg, Switzerland
PRICE UPON REQUEST
NOBILIS ESTATE AG David Hauptmann — +41 44 266 60 35
desk@nobilis-estate.com
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Park City, UT, USA
USD $23,000,000
WINDERMERE REAL ESTATE — SOUTHWEST
M. Sidford/C. Halliday — +1 435 962 4544
matthew@sidfordrealestate.com
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Dubbed the Water-Earth-Sky Villa by renowned Berg Design, this custombuilt residence is where luxury meets nature’s grandeur. Perched high on the cliffs of Tuhaye’s Lone Peak neighborhood on 5.97 acres, this private sanctuary is designed for those who value privacy, peace and timeless elegance. Thoughtfully designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, it features an infinity pool, expansive terrace and breezeway-connected wings. Includes 200K Talisker Club membership: Mark O’Meara designed golf course, Deer Valley ski in/ski out clubhouse and so much more.
Lurin, Saint Barthélémy
EUR €18,000,000
SIBARTH REAL ESTATE
Zarek Honneysett — +590 590 29 88 91
estates@sibarthrealestate.com
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Find peace of mind in Domaine du Gouverneur, an exclusive gated community nestled between Gustavia and St. Jean, just a five-minute drive from the pristine Gouverneur Beach. Designed by Architectonik, this four-bedroom retreat with ultra-premium finishes blends modern lines with West Indies elegance as an ode to tropical living. Surrounded by lush landscaping, the property unfolds into a secluded oasis, offering sea views and a superb, flat pool area.
The luxurious new-development villa project, “AQUA,” has a legally valid building permit. This exceptional residential development features breathtaking views and is located in the heart of a sought-after residential area on a sunny, south-facing slope. The property impresses with a generous floor plan, top-class architectural design and high-end, luxury interior finishes that meet the highest standards of modern living. The property is further enhanced by a generously sized garage that provides direct access to the residence.
Weggis/Luzern, Switzerland
PRICE UPON REQUEST
NOBILIS ESTATE AG
Daniela Doychinova — +41 44 266 60 39
desk@nobilis-estate.com
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Dallas, TX, USA
USD $17,597,000
DAVE PERRY-MILLER REAL ESTATE
C. Gregory & R. Streiff — +1 469 371 3008
ryan@daveperrymiller.com
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The only privately gated estate within the prestigious Crespi Estates community. Set on 1.95 acres, this residence was just completed in May 2025, built by Crescent Estates Custom Homes. The architectural design masterfully blends traditional elegance with modern refinement. Inside, soaring ceilings adorned with intricate moldings meet crisp, contemporary lines, enhanced by premium surfaces and state-of-the-art amenities. A sports court with pickleball, four-car garage and expansive rear motor court add convenience and recreation to this exceptional lifestyle.
An extraordinary, 2.08-acre, Gulf-to-Bay estate on Casey Key with 300 feet of private Gulf beachfront and 90 feet on the Intracoastal. Located in the exclusive Estates section of Casey Key, this property includes a main home, two guesthouses, infinity-edge beachside pool and grandfathered covered boat dock with a 16,000-pound lift. Enjoy panoramic views, unmatched privacy and endless potential to renovate or build your dream retreat. A rare chance to own a piece of paradise on one of Florida’s most coveted islands.
Nokomis, FL, USA
USD $16,000,000
SMITH & ASSOCIATES REAL ESTATE A. Heese/J. Atkinson — +1 941 302 9567
aheese@smithandassociates.com
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Cherry Hills Village, CO, USA
PRICE UPON REQUEST
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
G. Lorenzen/K. Couzens — +1 303 570 2042
gina@kentwood.com
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Residing at the end of a private lane and backing to Little Dry Creek, this magnificent property spans nearly two acres. A gated circular drive and porte-cochère invite you to this European-style residence, incorporating over 8,700 square feet of uncompromising architecture, outstanding craftsmanship and customized details, as well as stunning natural surroundings, which come together to create serenity in this extraordinary home. One of the most revered locations in Old Cherry Hills, offering an unmatched combination of privacy and proximity to so many amenities.
A pieds dans l’eau masterpiece by legendary architect Luigi Vietti — a rare quintessence of the original Costa Smeralda spirit. Surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens, this iconic villa offers direct access to a secluded beach, elegant infinity pool and panoramic views over Porto Cervo’s renowned marina. A flawless blend of timeless architecture, total privacy and refined coastal living.
Porto Cervo, Italy
PRICE UPON REQUEST
MAIOR CAPITAL
Francesco Budroni — +39 366 330 0969
global@maiorcapital.com
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Naples, FL, USA
USD $12,900,000
WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE
Andrew Christopher — +1 239 821 3560
andrew.christopher@raveis.com
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Fort Myers , FL, USA
USD $11,500,000
JOHN R. WOOD CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL
REAL ESTATE
Elise & Tom Starr — +1 239 209 3960
estarr@johnrwood.com
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Martha’s Vineyard, MA, USA
USD $12,500,000
SANDPIPER REALTY, INC.
L. Buder/K. Buder — +1 508 627 3737
buder@sandpiperrealty.com
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Redding, CT, USA
USD $10,750,000
WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE
John Cavaliere — +1 203 257 7895
john.cavaliere@raveis.com
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University Park, TX, USA
USD $12,250,000
ALLIE BETH ALLMAN & ASSOCIATES
David Nichols — +1 214 534 2772
david.nichols@alliebeth.com
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Welcome to one of University Park's most stunning contemporary homes ever built. Nestled on a remarkable 0.432-acre lot surrounded by mature trees, this home feels like a true treehouse retreat. Designed by noted Dallas architect Gary Cunningham with interior design by Trisha Wilson, every room is exceptional. Featuring a three-car garage, radiant-heated floors throughout the main level and stunning gallery-style windows, this home is truly a masterpiece.
DESIGN
WITH THE GRAIN
A historic mill, reborn as a serene and tasteful retreat, takes in Canada’s natural beauty
By LISA KLEIN
Décor inspired by the French countryside adds charm to the rustic-chic interiors 1
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Original equipment from the historic grain mill adds a sense of awe in the basement
The home is surrounded by serene forest trails — and a private waterfall 3
Tucked into a rural, forested pocket of Ontario, Canada, just two hours from Toronto, is a peaceful landscape characterized by limestone cliffs, caves and glacial potholes with a trio of rivers flowing through the charming towns that dot the area.
The quaint Rockwood, home to the Eramosa River and just under 5,500 people, has a long history as a milling center thanks to its rushing waters. Settled in 1812 by Quakers, its first sawmill was built in 1821, soon followed by others, including the town’s iconic 1867 Rockwood Woolen Mill.
All images throughout courtesy of Harvey Kalles Real Estate
A smaller stone mill, built in 1840 for Henry Hortop, still sits just beyond the local shops and cafés of Main Street. It was operated continuously by generations of the Hortop family as a grist mill, turning grains, such as wheat, corn, oats and barley, into usable flour and meal until 1975, when it was sold to Mort and Carol Rapp. They had dreams of turning it into a home — one complete with its own private waterfall.
“Mr. Rapp was drawn to the property for the engineering challenge and creative opportunity it presented, while Mrs. Rapp envisioned a truly one-of-a-kind getaway and space to entertain,” says Ryan Wood, the listing agent with Harvey Kalles Real Estate. “The transformation of ‘The Mill’ into a residence was no small undertaking — the renovation cost totaled approximately $3 million (CAD) back in the 1970s.”
Working with noted architect Mandel Sprachman and interior designer John North, the Rapps added a turbine to the property’s waterfall to generate their own electricity — the falls can also be modulated by raising or lowering the dam — and modified inside the stone walls to create warm, inviting living spaces inspired by the
French countryside. The result is a home that exudes rustic elegance from every corner, winning it several architectural and design awards, including an Ontario Renews Award in the non-residentialto-residential category in 1982.
Decades later, the Mill continues to impress. Its stone walls, exposed wooden beams and wide floor planks remind residents of the place’s past, while modern comforts keep it grounded in the present.
On the main level, the great room features an enormous, wood-burning fireplace with a bronzed metal hood, perfect for cozy family gatherings, and open space beyond for entertaining a crowd. A generously sized kitchen and breakfast nook lead right outdoors.
It’s hard not to spend most time in the sunroom — whether sipping coffee in the morning, enjoying a good book or savoring evening cocktails with guests. “The glass-enclosed sunroom provides a magical and unobstructed view of the private waterfall,” Mr. Wood adds. “The design feels as if you are hanging inside the falls themselves, the sound of the water surrounding you despite the actual distance.”
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On the floor above are three beautifully decorated bedrooms, reminiscent of “another, more refined era of romanticism,” per Mr. Wood, with a versatile seating area. A spiral staircase stretches to the home’s top reaches, now sunny and bright thanks to added skylights, where the primary suite looks out onto the surrounding treetops.
“And, of course, the mill equipment has been preserved in the basement of the home as a testament to the history of the building and its contribution to Rockwood’s local industry,” Mr. Wood says — now lit by a sparking chandelier.
“FOR THOSE SEEKING privacy, timeless design and a retreat from the rush, this home offers not just a place to live, but a place to be,” Mr. Wood says. “It’s ideal for someone who values elegance, serenity and the luxury of space — both inside and out.”
The home sits on 1.8 acres that back onto the Waterloo Nature Conservancy and the stunning Rockwood Conservation Area beyond, taking in the natural scenery that the area is known for today, rather than its working mills. A barn adds storage space, while a stone patio awaits plein air meals, parties and relaxation. A pool “has been strategically placed within the trees to provide shade and create a lagoon-like feel,” Mr. Wood says.
“There’s a deep sense of peace here — the kind that comes from being surrounded by natural beauty without sacrificing comfort or sophistication,” he says of the Mill’s idyllic setting. “It's the kind of place where mornings begin with birdsong and the sound of a waterfall just outside your window and afternoons are spent wandering forested paths, tending gardens or reading in a sun-drenched room wrapped in glass. More than a home, it’s a place to reconnect with nature, with timeless design and with the quiet pleasures of a well-lived life.”
Location ROCKWOOD, ONTARIO, CANADA
Price
GRAND ENTRANCE
Make an impact on guests — and yourself — the moment the front door opens
By LISA KLEIN
First impressions, as they say, are everything. Arriving into someone’s home is no exception. Although guests usually only pass through an entryway briefly on their way in and out, this transitional space can still leave a mark in that fleeting moment. Whatever they see when they walk through the door should grab them and make them want to see what’s next.
“The foyer is important because it’s like the preface to a book,” says Marcus Mohon, interior designer and cofounder of Mohon Interiors in Austin, Texas. “It offers a glimpse of what’s to come.”
Entry décor should be just as considered as the rest of the home, from flooring and wall treatments to color, pattern and standout artwork, all with a touch of your own character, of course — creating a powerful passageway from the outside world into your personal sanctuary.
“The entry is your moment to have a little bit of fun and a little bit of excitement and a little bit of breath,” says Nicole Fuller, founder and principal of Nicole Fuller Interiors, with locations in New York and Los Angeles. “Creating a moment…is just a nice thing to come home to.”
The entry is still a functional space — it’s not just the first and last place you see, but also use — so for the best possible moment, remember to make sure everything has a home. Smart storage can be a perfectly placed closet, shoe rack hidden in a wall, floating shelf or beautiful piece of furniture with just the right number of drawers to stow away the day’s accoutrement. Every entry also needs the trifecta of practicalities: appropriate lighting, somewhere to sit and at least one mirror. These touches, of course, can also be standout design pieces.
When it comes to design elements, the advice is the same whether there is a cramped, awkward hall or a towering foyer through the door. Larger spaces just need to be warmed up a bit more, while smaller rooms need more creativity in layout and shapes.
With room to spare, foyer décor can stretch to the ultimate heights, as seen here in a historic London home Image courtesy of Argent Design
“It’s all about having a moment of focus and impact, no matter how large or small it is,” Mr. Mohon says. And “because it’s its own special place, it doesn’t have to perfectly match the rest of the home, but it has to relate and hold hands.”
One way to make a slightly separate statement is to start with the walls. “I’ll put a different color…so as you walk in you have this bold color, or I’ll put something textured on the walls,” says Fontanella, founder and CEO of London-based Argent Design. In one Miami apartment, she covered the walls of the small entrance in a rich, swirling, brown stone.
Ms. Fuller added dynamic color to an otherwise glass-walled penthouse overlooking the ocean with a custom, multi-colored wallpaper. In an Austin home, Mr. Mohon “created a sense of arrival by surrounding you in sheers when you enter,” he says. The floaty fabric adds both texture and a peaceful air.
What lies above and below the walls is another way to play with pattern, texture and maximum effect.
Ms. Fuller likes to combine different flooring materials to make entry spaces stand out from the rest of the home. “You can have fun with stone-inlaid floors or with pattern; you might land into a geometric or mosaic floor,” she says. “We’ve done entries where there’s this gorgeous, patterned wood and then inlaid in the wood is mosaic. It’s a moment, an element of surprise.”
Fontanella focuses on floors and ceilings throughout an entire home. “We’ll do a different floor finish or ceiling finish, and that’s how we carve up a space and make every space have a personality,” she says. In one project, she created an indoor-outdoor garden feel in the entrance using preserved moss and a modern take on terrazzo that spreads across the floor. In another, a starburst-patterned floor calls out to the diamond lantern hanging above. Her oft-used overhead trick is a mirrored ceiling. In the aforementioned Miami apartment, it draws attention away from the fact that there’s no natural light in the entrance. In larger, two-story spaces, it draws the eye to elaborate staircases or cascading light fixtures.
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Artwork, whether small and subtle or big and bold as seen here, is an entry must
Even tight spaces can become expansive with the right finishes, as used in this Miami apartment
An entryway becomes its own serene space thanks to sheer drapery in an Austin, Texas, home
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The foyer is a good place to go wild, as seen in this Medina, Washington, home Search WXAU on luxuryportfolio.com
Image courtesy of Windermere Real Estate 5
Photo by William Waldron, courtesy of Nicole Fuller Interiors
Photo by Paul Stoppi, courtesy of Argent Design
Photo by
Vitale, courtesy of Mohon Interiors
Lighting is a focal point for any room, and in an entry can make a major statement. In even a small space, layered lamps, fabulous sconces or an artistic pendant add interest. Whether miniature or massive, fixtures should enhance the other elements. When Fontanella renovated the historic Selwyn House in London, her clients wanted to celebrate the eye-catching, multistory, stone steps. “They wanted something that was slightly exaggerating how magnificent this staircase was,” Fontanella says, so she strung classic crystal chandeliers together to sparkle down the entire expanse.
For a finishing touch, the designers recommend greeting guests with one of the best expressions of personality: artwork. Art is so central to her projects that Ms. Fuller even has an art advisory division of her business and often refers to the entry as the gallery space — emphasizing how important it is as a first look. “I have one of my favorite pieces in my entry, and it makes me so happy to see it every time I walk in,” she adds. “It’s not in my living room or my dining room or my bedroom. I see it multiple times a day; I love it and it’s a show piece.”
ART CAN ALSO easily be swapped for other pieces, keeping things interesting for both you and your guests. Other layered elements are easily variable, too. “My favorite way to add an element of surprise is to change things out,” Mr. Mohon says. “My entryway looks slightly different in all four seasons. I have an acrylic column that I switch out seasonally. In the summer it displays a giant monstera plant and in the winter it’s a stone bust.”
No matter what is displayed, each item punctuates the beginning of the home — and the homeowner’s story.
“I like to have the things that people have collected over the years,” Fontanella says of her entryways. “I like the narrative. I think it’s important to a home. And your home is a narrative of you.”
LIGHTING THE WAY
Louis Poulsen set the bar for more than a century of Danish lamp design
By LISA KLEIN
Exacting designer Poul Henningsen created innovative lighting for Louis Poulsen that has stood the test of time All images throughout courtesy of Louis Poulsen
Simple, yet functional. Ergonomic, yet sophisticated. Natural, yet streamlined. Radical, yet timeless. Danish modern design has an unmistakable style all its own. Furniture designer Kaare Klint, considered the movement’s father, preached his ideas about function, proportion and creating around the human body starting in the 1920s, spearheading what would become a nationwide phenomenon. Around the same time, another of Denmark’s native designers, Poul Henningsen, began crafting light fixtures following a similar philosophy for the Louis Poulsen company.
The new look was appreciated at home right away by pioneering modernist architects and the general public alike. “There’s always been a culture in Denmark around really supporting its domestic designers,” says Austin Durling, public relations and marketing manager for Louis Poulsen in North America. “When you go to Denmark, you see Louis Poulsen everywhere, but you also see very recognizable Danish furniture, tables, chairs, sofas — all throughout the cities, in people’s homes and in public spaces.”
Others ultimately caught on to the appeal, especially throughout the mid-20th century, and Danish design is now revered the world over. “People who have been into design throughout history understand the value and prestige of Danish design, and these lamps,” Mr. Durling says. “You could argue that lighting as a design icon or status symbol [also] originated with Danish design.”
Louis Poulsen didn’t start off with ambitions of becoming the pinnacle of Danish lighting. In fact, the company was founded by Ludvig Raymond Poulsen in 1874 before electrical power had made its way to Denmark and five years prior to Thomas Edison unveiling his worldchanging lightbulb in the United States. It began as a somewhat unsuccessful wine importing business, eventually joined by Ludvig’s nephew, Louis. The duo saw an opening when the country was electrified in the 1890s and began selling supplies and simple lamps.
Funny enough, neither Poulsen was around to see their namesake truly take off. After taking over the company, Louis sold half of it to Sophus “Buski” KaastrupOlsen, a free-thinker who saw electricity as the wave of the future, and the rest in 1917 when he retired. In 1924, KaastrupOlsen would serendipitously meet architect and designer Poul Henningsen, whose groundbreaking fixtures would guide the future of lighting — and Louis Poulsen.
“Here I met a man who was just as crazy as me, and a lot of good came out of it,” Henningsen once said of Kaastrup-Olsen. Innovation drove Henningsen, as did his belief that architecture and design were as much social undertakings as aesthetic ones. He was known for being strong-willed, difficult and frank about his thoughts; he even published a magazine called NYT throughout his tenure at Louis Poulsen, writing about politics, social causes and design philosophies.
“He was a very opinionated, politically active, outspoken individual,” Mr. Durling says. “He was a details-obsessed person who was constantly trying to innovate, constantly trying to make improvements — he was just one of those perfectionist people.”
Nowhere did these predilections manifest as much as in the lamps he created to mold light itself into what he thought it should be. During electricity’s spread into homes and public spaces around the globe, many thought the ultra-bright light that came with stronger power and ever-better bulbs was a symbol of modernity. Henningsen, however, scorned harsh beams and their unappealing glare, making it his life’s mission to flawlessly filter and direct it. He experimented with pendants made from various materials, colors and repetitive
shapes to make light warmer and enhance one’s home. An early 1921 globe pendant with multiple shades in brass and silver hung in his sister-in-law’s dining room. Another family member also served as inspiration.
“He had a very close relationship with his mother,” Mr. Durling says. “She was a fairly vain person, and as she was getting older, she wanted to be seen in the most flattering light possible. So he wanted to design lights for her to look beautiful and young in.” Thanks to her, “some of our lamps [have pink glass] or have pink and light red on the underside of them. That’s because it’s a little bit more flattering on the human face.”
During this time, Henningsen also developed his “principals of lighting,” published in Politiken magazine and signed with pen name “PH,” a moniker by which his lamps are still labeled today. He said it was a designer’s duty to “improve the hygiene, economy and beauty of light by scientific means.” This meant shielding the bulb from direct view, evenly distributing light, directing light where it was needed for each room or task and, of course, making it look good in the process.
“He’s the forefather of what our brand identity now is and has been for 100-plus years,” Mr. Durling says of Henningsen’s credo. “We’ve continued that mindset all throughout the brand’s history.”
In 1925, Louis Poulsen brought Henningsen’s lamps, designed following this ever-present ethos and with his signature curved-metal shades, to the famed catalyst for the art deco movement, the Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts, along with drawings and explanations of his principles. Form following function won Henningsen a gold medal and a silver for Louis Poulsen.
The PH Artichoke, originally designed by Henningsen for a restaurant, is still Louis Poulsen’s most extravagant offering 2
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Each of Henningsen’s designs carefully bent the properties of light into perfection
After the exhibition, Henningsen’s quest for the perfect lamp finally manifested in his signature piece. Always painstakingly improving on his ideas, the designer realized that a logarithmic curve starting from the center of the bulb would best distribute its light and matte shades, rather than metallic, were needed to reduce glare. In three simple shades — one curved like a bowl, one a deep cup and one flat with a covered base — the iconic PH lamp was born.
A sizing system was devised to indicate varying ratios of the three shades and the line was expanded from hanging pendants to include wall and table lamps along with custom configurations for individual clients. Three decades later, a fourth top shade was added to create the PH5, Louis Poulsen’s best-selling version ever. Although wildly modern for its time, the PH spread throughout households across Denmark.
“I think the quality of light was just so much better than what competitors were doing at the time,” Mr. Durling muses. “If you’re seeing lighting that’s flattering and looks good and is super versatile, it’s much easier to use that for your home rather than something that’s unflattering or harsh or only works in one specific space.”
The PH did work everywhere, lighting up Denmark from department stores, banks and museums to factories, hospitals and orphanages. Arhaus Central Station’s train depot still features row upon row of PHs — three the originals from 1929.
The three-shade system of Henningsen’s PH lamp is now available in a multitude of sizes and styles 4
Henningsen even adapted it slightly to properly reflect onto indoor tennis courts in
1927, coating the shades and angling them just so. Immediate fans were also found in architectural heavyweights such as Ludvig Mies Van der Rohe and Le Corbusier, who used the PH in their own buildings.
Henningsen often worked with architects on other custom, site-specific projects, many of which ended up in the Louis Poulsen catalog, although not all could be mass manufactured; a spiral lamp he created for Arhaus University’s grand hall in 1942, for example, was too intricate to put into production.
Another, however, ended up as Henningsen’s crowning achievement.
The PH Artichoke, originally called the Pinecone, was created in 1958 for the Langelinie Pavilion restaurant in Copenhagen, being rebuilt after the German occupation of World War II. The large pendants were formed with numerous copper leaves painted pink on the underside, casting a rosy glow sure to be approved by Henningsen’s mother. The lamp was the company’s most expensive — complicated to manufacture, using a large amount of material and difficult to hang — but also its most soughtafter piece. The Artichoke became so wellknown that the originals in the Langelinie were stolen in 2009, eventually found listed for sale on eBay; others now hang in museums around the world.
The PH5, with a fourth shade added, is Henningsen and Louis Poulsen’s best-selling version ever 5
Architect Arne Jacobsen created a sleeker, more graphic fixture in the AJ lamp 6
The VL 56 pendant was first designed by architect Vilhelm Lauritzen for a labor movement building in Cophenhagen 7
Although Henningsen’s creations quickly became synonymous with Louis Poulsen lighting, several other influential design minds of the time contributed to the company’s growing collection of legendary lamps. In the small world of Danish design, architects often also functioned as interior and product designers, buildings becoming their singular vision — known as a gesamtkunstwerk, a comprehensive, total work of art. They turned to leading furniture and lighting manufacturers, such as Louis Poulsen, to produce their accoutrement — all with a modernist, functional twist.
Vilhelm Lauritzen, who held many of the same views as Henningsen and whose eponymous architecture firm is still operating today, had a decades-long collaboration with Louis Poulsen. In the 1930s he designed the original Copenhagen Airport terminal top to bottom, along with the lavish Danish Broadcasting Corporation Radio House — now a concert hall — with mahogany paneling, ox-hide seats and VL Radiohus pendants made by Louis Poulsen. The VL Ring Crown and VL 56 graced later projects, among many others.
Arne Jacobsen, one of the most influential Danish modernist architects, was just a bit younger than Henningsen and Lauritzen, although his designs were markedly different: “It’s this sleeker,
streamlined aesthetic,” Mr. Durling notes. Louis Poulsen worked with him on numerous site-specific designs, including new versions of his graphic, geometric AJ lamp and pendant for the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen and the AJ Oxford for St. Catherine’s College at Oxford, both of which he was commissioned to build in the ’50s.
Even more divergent, although still within the bounds of Henningsen’s lighting principles, were the creations of Vernor Panton. The furniture and product designer briefly worked for Arne Jacobsen and found another mentor in Henningsen after marrying his stepdaughter. Panton had begun to branch out from the minimalism of his predecessors, turning to futuristic styles, materials and hues that marked the ’60s and ’70s. “It’s plastic, it’s funky colors, it’s really in your face; there’s curvy, funky shapes,” Mr. Durling adds. His 1967 Flowerpot, with two spherical shades, was extremely popular in Denmark, as was 1971’s Panthella — a spherical shade on a flared base with a novel, three-step dimmer.
Louis Poulsen, still owned by KaastrupOlsen’s son, Jens, until his death in 1977, expanded outside of Denmark through the ’70s. Although it’s changed hands several times since and is now owned by an Italian investment group, the company continues
to flourish, illuminated by inspiration from its long past. In the early 2000s, it began working with fresh talents on a freelance basis — each with their own unique story, but all of whom are loyal to Henningsen’s principals of lighting design.
“Øivind Slaato is a product designer and a Louis Poulsen fan, and he basically started submitting designs over and over again until there was one that they said ‘Yes, this works, we’ll put it into production,’” Mr. Durling says of one such collaborator. His 2015 Patera is made of acrylic cells woven in a Fibonacci sequence, light glowing from each diamond. The same year, the NJP table lamp by Japanese studio nendo’s chief designer, Oki Sato, was released — highlighting the overlap between the minimalist designs of the two countries. Louis Poulsen’s newest lamp, Anne Boysen’s 2021 Moonsetter, began in quite the modern way — as the winner of a Danish design competition on TV.
While older models that fell out of favor have been pulled from the market over the years, many of the company’s originals are, of course, still going strong. “We don’t really bring new designers into the fold very often,” Mr. Durling says. “As you can imagine, our icons with the ‘Big Four’ are far and away our best sellers.”
NEW COLORS AND sizes of the classics offer updates and options, and next year will see the launch of celebratory lines of the PH and Panthella for the 100th anniversary of Henningsen’s three-shade system and what would be Panton’s 100th birthday.
Despite how long Louis Poulsen has been in the space — since the dawn of electric lighting itself — its designs still feel as modern as ever. “Just by the nature of it being around for so long, it doesn’t feel out of place or shocking in any type of environment,” Mr. Durling says. “Interior designers now, who are maybe mixing design eras or countries of origin or styles, are adding Louis Poulsen lights.”
And the Danish design visionaries who first created them are to thank for that, he adds. “I think that the care and effort and perfectionist mentality that many of these men had just forced them to create things that were beautiful and timeless.”
Henningsen’s shaded globe pendant, shown in Paris in 1925, catapulted Louis Poulsen into the spotlight 8
The VL Studio was created for the headquarters of the Danish Broadcasting Corporation, designed by Vilhelm Lauritzen 9
21st-century offerings, such as Øivind Slaatto’s Patera, continue the Louis Poulsen tradition 10
Vernor Panton’s lamps, such as the Panthella, strayed from those of his predecessors in both style and materials 11
Aledo, TX, USA
USD $10,850,000
WILLIAMS TREW
Allen Crumley — +1 817 480 9502
allen@williamstrew.com
Search RFQI on luxuryportfolio.com
An extraordinary, 32-acre equestrian estate just minutes from Fort Worth. Designed by renowned architect Weldon Turner and built by Rick Yuill, this private retreat features hand-cut stone, reclaimed wood floors, soaring beamed ceilings and walls of glass with sweeping pastoral views. The grounds offer fenced pastures, a picturesque barn, serene lake and resort-style pool. Inside are en-suite bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen with fireplace and spa-inspired primary suite. This is refined country living with room to roam.
Designed by acclaimed architect Guy Peterson, this one-of-a-kind, two-story residence in Sarasota’s exclusive AQUA building offers 7,645 square feet of curated interiors and a 4,000-square-foot wraparound terrace with 360-degree Sarasota Bay views. Includes two private boat slips, dual climate-controlled two-car garages and a striking floating staircase along with floor-to-ceiling windows and designer lighting to elevate every detail. AQUA offers downtown walkability, world-class amenities and concierge services minutes from fine dining, cultural experiences and beaches.
First documented around 1530 as a castle and former seat of the local governor, this historic estate has been carefully restored in collaboration with heritage authorities. A highlight is the 1689 mural on the north façade. Today, the property consists of two residences with separate addresses, driveways and entrances. The northern section offers a luxurious private apartment with direct river access. The southern wing includes three elegant rental units featuring parquet floors and rich architectural details that reflect the estate’s storied past.
Wagenhausen, Switzerland
PRICE UPON REQUEST
NOBILIS ESTATE AG
David Hauptmann — +41 44 266 60 39
desk@nobilis-estate.com
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Arden, NC, USA
USD $9,465,000
HOWARD HANNA BEVERLY-HANKS REAL ESTATE
Rebecca Dougherty — +1 828 747 7857
rebecca@walnutcoverealty.com
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Poised above the pristine fairways of Walnut Cove and framed by panoramic, year-round vistas, including Asheville’s twinkling lights, this exquisite residence offers more than 7,400 square feet of refined mountain living. Designed by architect Jeff Dishner, Dillard-Jones construction and decor by Tribus Interiors. Two expansive levels capture the beauty of the surrounding valley. The main-level layout is tailored for both relaxation and productivity, with home offices and an owner’s suite. The Cliffs at Walnut Cove membership is available.
Bluffton, SC, USA
USD $9,000,000
CHARTER ONE REALTY
Kevin King — +1 843 384 9466
kevin@kevinkingassociates.com
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Naples, FL, USA
USD $8,490,000
WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE
Cristian Moya — +1 239 351 8408
cristian.moya@raveis.com
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Ann Arbor, MI, USA
USD $8,750,000
REINHART REALTORS
Brent Flewelling — +1 734 646 4263
brent@wesellgroup.com
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Pine Plains, NY, USA
USD $8,475,000
HOULIHAN LAWRENCE
George Langa — +1 845 242 6314 glanga@houlihanlawrence.com
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Naples, FL, USA
USD $8,995,000
JOHN R. WOOD CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL
REAL ESTATE
Lana Webb — +1 239 331 0104 lwebb@johnrwood.com
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Welcome to this masterfully reimagined estate nestled in the coveted Pine Ridge neighborhood of Naples, Florida. Situated on 1.3 lushly landscaped acres, this exceptional residence exudes timeless elegance and refined luxury. Expansive interiors flow effortlessly to stunning outdoor living spaces, including a resort-style pool and serene garden settings. A rare offering that combines privacy, sophistication and proximity to Naples’ world-class beaches, dining and shopping.
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
USD $8,400,000
CDR BIENES RAICES SAN MIGUEL
Crystal Calderoni — +52 415 103 3764
crystal@cdrsanmiguel.com
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This iconic estate in San Miguel is a stunning blend of timeless elegance and modern sophistication, designed by New York architects Spence Sutton and Linda Warren. Located in San Miguel de Allende, Casa Stream is surrounded by lush gardens, a koi pond, two pools, gym and steam sauna. Includes three unique homes with custom furnishings and art, plus a casita and staff quarters. Featuring top-tier craftsmanship, it’s ideal as a private retreat, boutique hotel or exclusive wellness haven. Luxury, privacy and elegance combined.
Westlake, TX, USA
USD $7,995,000
EBBY HALLIDAY REALTORS
Marcontell + Gilchrest Group — +1 972 743 9171
kellymarcontell@ebby.com
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Introducing Waters Edge Retreat, a newly completed, modern, waterfront home in the prestigious, gated community of Westlake Ranch. Built by SCH Homes with interiors and exteriors by DeLeo and Fletcher, this architectural statement features soaring ceilings, walls of glass and refined, Scandinavian-inspired finishes. A negative-edge Claffey pool, panoramic lake views, expansive outdoor living and seamless indooroutdoor integration create a singular, sophisticated retreat. Community amenities include indoor pickleball courts and a stylish clubroom.
Nantucket, MA, USA
USD $7,995,000
WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE
Ty Costa — +1 508 560 5160
ty.costa@raveis.com
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Eich, Switzerland
PRICE UPON REQUEST
NOBILIS ESTATE AG
Daniela Doychinova — +41 44 266 60 39
desk@nobilis-estate.com
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Tampa, FL, USA
USD $7,950,000
SMITH & ASSOCIATES REAL ESTATE
BG Holmberg — +1 813 220 0643
bholmberg@smithandassociates.com
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Meilen, Switzerland
PRICE UPON REQUEST
NOBILIS ESTATE AG
Daniela Doychinova — +41 44 266 60 39
desk@nobilis-estate.com
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Zürich, Switzerland
PRICE UPON REQUEST
NOBILIS ESTATE AG
David Hauptmann — +41 44 266 60 39
desk@nobilis-estate.com
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Elevated high above the vibrant cityscape, this extraordinary 5.5-room residence offers refined urban living in Zurich’s iconic Renaissance Tower. Located on the 15th floor, the approximately 300-square-meter apartment combines panoramic views, modern, loft-like architecture and an unbeatable city location. Designed by the acclaimed Swiss firm Diener & Diener and completed in 2011, the 81-meter Renaissance Tower blends private luxury living with the semi-public amenities of the Renaissance Tower Hotel, making it a bold architectural landmark in Zurich-West.
Odessa, FL, USA
USD $6,999,999
SMITH & ASSOCIATES REAL ESTATE
C. Hunter/D. Smith — +1 727 710 2573
dsmith@smithandassociates.com
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St. Margrethen, Switzerland
PRICE UPON REQUEST
NOBILIS ESTATE AG
David Hauptmann — +41 44 266 60 39
desk@nobilis-estate.com
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Sarasota, FL, USA
USD $6,950,000
MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY
Kim Ogilvie — +1 941 376 1717
kimogilvie@michaelsaunders.com
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Narragansett, RI, USA
USD $6,750,000
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES LTD.
Pawler Garrahan — +1 401 783 7733
pgarrahan@residentialproperties.com
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Lisboa,
Portugal
EUR €6,000,000
ORIA ADVISORS
Joana Branquinho — +351 911 122 060
info@oriaadvisors.com
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Exceptional three-bedroom penthouse in Lisbon’s Avenidas Novas, fully furnished by designer Rita Valadão. With 223 square meters of interior space, a 65-square-meter living room and 180-degree city views, it blends comfort and design. Features walnut wood, Fior di Pesco and Taj Mahal marble, chef’s kitchen with Gaggenau appliances, built-in wine cabinet and three elegant suites. In a historic building with pool, gym, 24-hour concierge and three parking spaces — all steps from Saldanha and Avenida da Liberdade.
Lakewood Ranch, FL, USA
USD $6,985,000
MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY
Francoise Borel — +1 941 228 3768
fancoiseborel@michaelsaunders.com
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Tucked in an exclusive, gated enclave at The Lake Club, this stunning Stock Custom estate — newer than one year — joins architectural brilliance and resort-style living on a lush, two-thirds-of-an-acre, private cul-de-sac. The 5,997-square-foot home is fully furnished and professionally decorated with four bedrooms and 5.5 baths. Highlights include soaring wood ceilings, chef’s kitchen, sleek great room, spa-level primary suite and 3,270-square-foot lanai with pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, swim-up bar and fire bowls set against serene natural views.
A 19th-century villa in the historic royal retreat of Sintra, Portugal, remains a romantic respite for the modern day
By AMELIA BOO
STORYBOOK SPLENDOR
There are few places that feel truly plucked from the pages of a fairytale, frozen in time — where the air is cooler, the streets are quieter and every winding road reveals another chapter of intrigue. Sintra is one such place.
Nestled among the rolling hills of western Portugal just a short, 30-minute drive from the capital city of Lisbon, this UNESCO World Heritage-recognized town has long been the playground of kings, poets and dreamers alike. Tucked amidst misty forests and turreted castles sits a villa that embodies the soul of Sinta’s storied past, ready for a new author to write its next chapter.
Welcome to Villa Castro, a carefully restored 19th-century chalet that perfectly
captures the magic of Sintra. Commissioned in 1889 by Portuguese monarchist Possidónio de Castro, the dwelling’s namesake, this historic hideaway is a glimmering gem. Equal parts architectural heirloom and contemporary respite, it has panoramic views of the nearby Atlantic Ocean, verdant mountaintops and a village so picturesque it feels torn straight from the pages of a Romantic-era novel.
Sintra is the kind of place where time slows into a sweet, nostalgic drip and awakens the senses with the steady buzz of honeybees dancing from flower to flower — of which there are many lining the town’s historic estates. You almost expect a princess to come traipsing out of the never-ending forest that bejewels the hill on which Sintra is perched.
Villa Castro exudes old-world charm
Peaceful balconies look out on Sintra’s emerald backdrop
The town’s legacy as a royal retreat stretches back several centuries. Cooler and leafier than the sun-stained plains below it, Sintra made a brisk summer escape for Portuguese monarchs seeking to get away from the heat. In 1724, Father Baião noted in his book, Portugal Cuidadoso, that, “Next to the Palace of Sintra was a forest, so thick, that during the day, it cast fear in him who entered it.” Kings and queens began to build magnificent palaces throughout that forest, creating a chain of satellite castles from which they could rule remotely in the granite mountains.
Later, it was the 19th-century Romantic movement, born from the rubble of Portugal’s catastrophic 1755 earthquake, that sent the royal court quite literally running for the hills. Aristocrats were accompanied by architects and artists in a great migration to Sintra, creating a burgeoning society of pedigreed and well-educated creatives who brought their fantasies to life in the form of whimsical estates. An eclectic assemblage of architectural styles arose as much of Sintra was rebuilt. Exotic gardens and pastelpainted castles still perch dramatically on the cliffside lawns that form Sintra’s wellheeled estates.
That architectural splendor earned Sintra its UNESCO designation in 1995, celebrated for its “incomparable union of natural and cultural values.” And today, the town remains remarkably untouched: Its cobbled lanes, forested outskirts and grand façades still evoke the same awe they did centuries ago.
Though Villa Castro was built just after Sintra’s Romantic apex, its spirit is still steeped in the same air of resplendence. Martim Celestino da Costa, its listing agent with Modern Global Properties, describes it as “full of character.”
“This place was built with incredible care,” he says. “You feel it in the high ceilings, the original hardwood floors, the hand-carved stone details. It’s got soul. But it’s also been renovated with just as much attention, so you don’t have to compromise on comfort.”
Inside, the home unfolds over several floors, with sun-drenched rooms and historic details peeking out from every angle. A fully equipped kitchen, private cinema room, wine cellar and even a sauna blend
seamlessly into the original bones of the home. Double-glazed windows, updated plumbing and electric systems, and private parking — a rare luxury in central Sintra — ensure modern ease without sacrificing original charm. It’s the best of both worlds.
Most importantly, every room offers a view: of forested peaks, tiled rooftops or the glimmering sea on clear days. Outside, a private garden offers a serene space for morning coffee or twilight gatherings, surrounded by the ever-present scent of eucalyptus and roses. With multiple suites, common areas designed for both comfort and conversation, and close proximity to Sintra’s best offerings, it indeed functions just as well as a private escape as it does a multigenerational retreat.
“IT’S THE KIND of house that works for everything,” Mr. da Costa explains. “If you want to disconnect, you can read by the window with the breeze coming in. If you want to host, there’s room for your whole family and then some. You’re right in the center of Sintra, just a short walk
from the palaces, the cafés, the train station. But once you’re inside, it’s like your own private world.”
For centuries, Sintra has drawn those seeking inspiration, restoration and a touch of enchantment. In the 19th century, writers such as Lord Byron and Eça de Queirós wandered these same hills, enthralled by their beauty. Today, that allure hasn’t faded — it’s simply evolved.
“Sintra has this kind of magic that’s hard to describe until you’ve actually been here,” Mr. da Costa says. “It feels like stepping into a storybook, but it’s real. Everything just moves at a slower, more peaceful pace. That’s why people keep coming back.”
Location SINTRA, PORTUGAL Price
EUR €3,900,000 luxuryportfolio.com
WEB ID: PXCZ
ROOM WITH A point OF VIEW
From insider access to exceptional curation, today’s luxury hoteliers are delivering a complete experience that indulges every sense
By KIRAN GILL
Previously viewed as a base for sightseeing and a place to sleep, the luxury hotel has shed that reputation and reemerged as a destination in its own right, with guests flocking to five-star hotels for the kind of attentive service that elevates a trip from memorable to unforgettable.
“What differentiates a luxury hotel stay from a high-end rental is service, ease and the kind of thoughtful details that make a stay feel truly effortless,” says Claudia Kozma Kaplan, chief brand officer of Raffles Hotels & Resorts. “Hotels take the guesswork out of the experience; there’s comfort in knowing that everything has been anticipated for you.”
Villas at Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain feature private pools and Arabian hospitality Image courtesy of Raffles Hotels & Resorts
The scene is set with guest rooms and public spaces that are expertly designed to create a unique sense of place, marrying a brand’s ethos with the essence of its destination. For example, The Ritz-Carlton properties in Japan feature spaces that seamlessly blend global sophistication and local authenticity. “Guests are enveloped in a sense of tranquility, discovery and unparalleled hospitality,” says Carlos Tarrero, Ritz-Carlton’s area general manager for luxury hotels in Japan.
At The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, sleek interiors are paired with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Kyoto offers handcrafted, artisanal touches alongside the serene backdrop of the Kamogawa River, while the Nikko outpost draws on the natural beauty of its surrounding forests and shrines with wood and stone design elements. The result is a harmony of East and West, tradition and modernity.
Raffles connects travelers with their destination and a slice of home. “Our guest rooms are thoughtfully designed to feel more like a private residence than a traditional hotel room,” Ms. Kaplan says. “Each space is intentionally laid out with distinct areas for sleeping, dressing, dining and entertaining, which gives guests a sense of comfort and ease that feels very much like home.” Public spaces, she adds, are equally considered. “They are often grand in scale, yet designed to feel intimate — places that are both inspiring and inviting.”
Hotels act as gateways to local culture outside of their walls, too, curating insider experiences that go beyond what even the most seasoned traveler could imagine. For example, at Raffles, “The Butler Did It Experiences” present a series of bespoke offerings uniquely tailored to each property.
“Piloted by our Raffles Butlers, these packages are designed to offer exclusive access and showcase the cultural richness of each destination in a truly one-of-a-kind way,” Ms. Kaplan says. Guests might find themselves enjoying afternoon tea with Cambodian royalty or embarking on a historical tour of London, with special attention to sights off the beaten path. “It’s about more than sightseeing,” Ms. Kaplan adds. “It’s about connection, discovery and creating memories that stay with our guests long after they depart.”
The Ritz-Carltons in Japan also specialize in tailored cultural immersions. In Kyoto, guests can take part in private tea ceremonies, samurai lessons or guided visits to hidden temples. Tokyo offers behind-the-scenes access to artisanal workshops, fashion districts and even after-hours museum tours. In Nikko, guests explore UNESCO World Heritage shrines or enjoy the seasonal beauty of the nearby national park on a lake cruise.
Another connection to culture, culinary programs have become as central to the guest experience as the rooms themselves, often drawing locals as well as international travelers.
“Our culinary program plays a central role in shaping the guest experience, as it’s not just about dining — it’s about storytelling, connection and care,” Ms. Kaplan says. “For today’s luxury traveler, exceptional culinary experiences are not just a nice-to-have; they’re a core expectation.”
At Raffles, restaurants and bars, such as the iconic Tiffin Room in Singapore or The Long Bar & Terrace in Boston, are developed to feel like neighborhood hubs. “They’re gathering places that are designed to draw in the local community and create a vibrant energy within our properties,” Ms. Kaplan explains.
Guests can indulge in a local kaiseki menu at
Japanese Restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko Image courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton
Guests are surrounded by Eastern European flair at Raffles Warsaw
Image courtesy of Raffles Hotels & Resorts
Traditional Japanese touches, such as the bonsai in the lobby, add cultural connection at The RitzCarlton, Kyoto
Image courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton
Villa décor at Raffles Sentosa Singapore links to the surrounding tropics in a modern way
Image courtesy of Raffles Hotels & Resorts 6 Rooms at
The Ritz-Carlton’s hotels in Japan offer a gastronomic journey through the country’s traditions. Tokyo’s Michelin-starred dining celebrates both French and Japanese cuisines, while Kyoto’s kaiseki menus follow the rhythm of the seasons. In Nikko, locally inspired dishes spotlight the bounty of the region, ensuring that the dining experience is rooted in place.
At Mandarin Oriental, hotel dining is in the midst of a renaissance as the establishment engages in a series of highly anticipated openings. For example, the hotel’s Hong Kong property will debut Terrace Boulud in 2026 under the stewardship of acclaimed French chef and restaurateur Daniel Boulud. In February 2025, the hotelier opened Israeli-British chef and restaurateur Yotam Ottolenghi’s first outpost outside of the United Kingdom in its Geneva location. Alongside firsts, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok recently celebrated its 150th anniversary by unveiling a new dining concept: Alex Dilling at Lord Jim’s, which brings a modern French-Mediterranean grill concept to the property.
Alongside robust culinary programs, luxury hotels have created a rich menu of wellness offerings with an eye to longlasting restoration.
“Wellness has gone from a niche to a need,” says Wendy Burk, founder and CEO of California-based travel agency Cadence. “Today, the expectation is to dive much deeper. We want to feel even more nurtured when we’re on a trip. It’s no longer the three-martini lunch; it’s wellness shots with spirulina, with menus designed to complement and enhance healthy lifestyles. It’s more than a hotel gym; it’s a sauna, cryotherapy and cold plunge tubs, yoga mats or other exercise equipment in the room and curated fragrances, scrubs and salts to highlight a sensory experience.”
7
The lobby at Raffles Jaipur is teeming with locally inspired design cues
Image courtesy of Raffles Hotels & Resorts
9
A wide range of packages put the focus on wellness at Mandarin Oriental Boston
Image courtesy of Mandarin Oriental
A sleek-yet-traditional Japanese onsen at The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko invites the forest in
Image courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton 8
Modern fusion cuisine mixes with the sparkling city skyline at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok’s Lord Jim’s Image courtesy of Mandarin Oriental 10 7
The Ritz-Carlton Japan grounds its wellness in tradition and place. In Kyoto and Tokyo, Zen-inspired spas and soaking tubs with skyline views combine with cutting-edge treatments. In Nikko, the lush environment invites forest bathing, riverside meditation and seasonal rituals rooted in nature.
Mandarin Oriental has positioned itself at the forefront of experiential wellness, likening its treatments and services to retreats. Bodrum, Turkey, offers body analysis programs and classic hammam rituals, while Boston curates three-day-long experiences built around distinct themes: Inner Strength, mindfulness and sound healing; Outer Strength, mobility therapy and muscle recovery; and Essence of Wellness, scrubs, facials and massage. The brand also works with industry experts, such as massage therapist Jimmy Jarnet, Pilates and yoga expert Laura Dodd and Master Hu, known for Tai Chi and Qi Gong.
At the heart of the hotel comeback is something no rental can replicate: exceptional and deeply personal service.
“The very best luxury hotels have one distinct advantage over any kind of rental: a team of people dedicated to enhancing and elevating the guest experience,” Ms. Burk says. “Whether it’s attentive and timely room service or honoring the ‘do not disturb’ sign, having a team of people dedicated to you and your way is definitely a luxury.”
TO MAKE A guest’s stay exceptional, Raffles relies on its butlers. “They anticipate needs before they’re even spoken and add thoughtful, often surprising touches that make each stay feel truly personal,” Ms. Kaplan says. Guests even communicate with their butlers via WhatsApp, ensuring seamless service at any moment.
For The Ritz-Carlton, service is embodied by its “Ladies and Gentlemen,” who are trained to recognize and respond to the uniqueness of each guest. “We empower our teams with both the autonomy and resources to create meaningful, bespoke moments,” Mr. Tarrero explains, whether through a handwritten note, a favorite tea prepared just right or arranging a cultural encounter perfectly suited to a guest’s interests.
As today’s travelers seek more meaningful, restorative and immersive experiences, luxury hotels are once again proving themselves to be the ultimate travel companion. They provide not just a bed, but a world: one of elegance, storytelling, culture and care.
SADDLE UP
Follow the tracks of gauchos, Argentina’s national folk heroes, to a rural estancia
By LISA KLEIN
Adrenaline rushes as you and your trusty horse gallop to reach a herd of cattle, deftly weaving to corral them into place. Birds flit by as the scene calms, fluffy pampas grass softening underfoot and rolling green hills standing guard in the distance. Later, the scent of grilled meat wafts through the air, laughter roaring above a crackling fire while the stars glimmer above.
This is the life of a gaucho, the Argentine equivalent of the North American cowboy — an iconic figure in the history and culture of the country. Estancias across the sweeping central pampas still keep up their traditions — and some even offer guests a warm welcome into their world.
“Many estancias combine the comfort of boutique hospitality with the charm of tradition, offering visitors the chance to engage in conversations with gauchos, learn about their customs and taste homemade recipes passed down through generations,” says Kevin Arlandi, chief operating officer of Central Real Estate Argentina in Buenos Aires. “It’s an intimate and authentic way to discover the true essence of Argentina — far from tourist clichés and closer to what is real and enduring.”
Gauchos emerged during the mid-18th century, roaming the grasslands in search of escaped or wild horses and cattle, the former to ride and the latter for their lucrative hides and tallow. Eventually, when vast swaths of the rolling plains came under the ownership of estancias, they were hired as cowhands and formed a new connection to the traditional ranch. No connection, however, is as strong as the one between a gaucho and his horse — the Criollo, a native breed known for its hardiness and endurance.
Horsemanship is intertwined with traditional Argentine culture Image courtesy of Estancia Los Potreros 1
“At the heart of gaucho life is the horse,” says Georgia Beech, general manager of Estancia Los Potreros in Córdoba. “Gauchos are renowned for their almost symbiotic relationship with their horses. Horses are not just tools for work, but they are partners in daily life, cattle herding and transport. This bond is built from a young age, often through years of riding, training and working together.”
Gauchos are celebrated for their free-spirited, nomadic lifestyle filled with hard work, folk songs, storytelling, courage and, of course, horsemanship. Their distinctive attire — ponchos and pleated trousers called bombachas rolled tight at the bottom — has become tradition, as have their meals of asado (barbeque), empanadas and locro stews. They are an enduring symbol in the country’s songs, poems, films and everyday life.
“Gauchos are at the heart of Argentine rural culture,” adds Paula Palma, owner and general manager of Estancia Rancho ‘e Cuero in Mendoza. “They’re more than just skilled horsemen — they represent freedom, resilience and a deep connection to the land. Estancias and gauchos are woven into Argentina’s identity. While Buenos Aires may be the cultural heart of the country, it’s the rural estancia…where you feel the soul.”
Visitors to Argentina can get a taste of that soul at the multitude of horse-related festivals throughout the year, showcasing livestock, Criollo horses and gaucho skills and traditions. La Rural takes place right in Buenos Aires, while just a bit farther afield, the Fiesta Nacional de la Tradicion in San Antonio de Areco is a much-attended horseback parade.
Some of the largest are the Desfile de Güemes parade in Salta and the Festival Nacional de Doma y Folklore rodeo in Jesús María. The celebration continues in smaller towns, such as Festival de la Candelaria in Cordoba and Fiestas Patrias in Mendoza, where residents don traditional dress, watch the gaucho parade and dance to folk music.
To get the full gaucho experience, however, visiting an estancia is the way to go. “Staying at an estancia is not just a luxurious getaway in nature — it is an immersive experience into the most genuine aspects of Argentine culture,” Mr. Arlandi says. “Guests have the opportunity to witness rural life up close, take part in horseback rides, enjoy traditional asados in the open air, go birdwatching or simply relax in the vast, peaceful landscape.”
Estancia Los Potreros, once such place, has been under the care of the Begg family for four generations. “What started as a traditional cattle and horse ranch slowly evolved into something more: a place where we are able to share our way of life with others,” Ms. Beech says. “Today, we still run cattle and breed horses, but we also open our home to guests from around the world who want to experience a taste of authentic rural Argentina.”
Estancia Rancho ‘e Cuero has similarly belonged to the Palma family for more than 250 years, looking out over the Mendoza countryside. “It’s truly breathtaking,” Ms. Palma says.
“We’re surrounded by the raw, untouched beauty of the Andes: rolling hills, crystal-clear streams and vast open skies. The terrain is wild, but peaceful. Depending on the season, you might see snow-capped peaks, wildflowers in bloom or condors soaring above. It’s an area that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply and feel completely immersed in nature.”
Image courtesy of Estancia Los Potreros 2
Many of the country’s traditional estancias dot the vast pampas, or grasslands
Guests staying at a family estancia get up close and personal with its horses
Image courtesy of Estancia Los Potreros 3
The rural setting of central Argentina makes for a peaceful getaway
Image courtesy of Estancia Rancho ‘e Cuero 4
Image courtesy of Estancia Los Potreros 6
Gaucho culture, and later estancias, grew around herding cattle
Gauchos and their horses form a close bond that goes beyond mere work
Image courtesy of Estancia Rancho ‘e Cuero 5
Image courtesy of Estancia Rancho ‘e Cuero 7
The native Criollo horse is favored by gauchos for its stamina
Horseback rides take in the vast, hilly landscapes surrounding the estancias
Image courtesy of Estancia Rancho ‘e Cuero
The estancias offer a truly hands-on peek into life with the gauchos, who also still live and work there. Although nothing compares to the connection between a gaucho and his horse, visitors will get to know both, even having the opportunity to participate in what they do best: helping to round up cattle and learning how rider and horse work together to get their job done. Guests don’t have to work, of course. They can also simply saddle up for daily rides to explore the rugged valleys, sweeping plains, babbling streams and well-worn trails. Along the way, also doable on foot, are a wide range of birds, foxes, guanacos, the elusive puma, waterfalls to swim in and streams to fish.
“At Estancia Los Potreros, visitors don’t just observe gaucho life, they live it alongside our team,” Ms. Beech adds. “It’s a rare opportunity to experience a centuries-old lifestyle in a modern world, where the gaucho’s bond with their horse and land continues to shape Argentina’s rural identity. Whether it’s a relaxed morning ride or an adventurous day out herding cattle, there’s something deeply grounding about being on horseback — how you are supposed to see Argentina, in my opinion.”
AFTER A LONG day outdoors, guests are invited to gather for another estancia tradition: eating, drinking, telling stories and laughing together. Local and seasonal favorites include asado, milanesa (breaded beef), empanadas, freshly made pasta and bread, and dulce de leche for dessert — washed down with plenty of Argentine wine and a warm welcome into the family, all to be continued around a campfire under the stars.
This authentic hospitality embodies the estancia, where time slows, strangers become friends and Argentina’s love and respect for gaucho culture truly comes alive.
“It’s the feeling of stepping into another world,” Ms. Palma says of Rancho ‘e Cuero. “You’re not just visiting a place — you’re becoming part of a family for a few days. There’s no rush, no noise; just nature, tradition and genuine connection. Whether it’s watching the sun set behind the mountains, sharing stories by the fire or riding a horse through a silent valley, people leave with memories that stay with them forever.”
get to take part in cattle herding and other
Guests are welcomed into the family with local wine and cuisine
Image courtesy of Estancia Los Potreros 10
Estancia visitors
ranch duties
Image courtesy of Estancia Los Potreros 9
Greenwich, CT, USA
USD $6,590,000
WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE
Stacy Young — +1 917 816 6733
stacy.young@raveis.com
Search DOKU on luxuryportfolio.com
Evergreen, CO, USA
USD $6,500,000
SLIFER SMITH & FRAMPTON REAL ESTATE
Luke Corbitt — +1 303 949 8104
luke@sliferfrontrange.com
Search XJIE on luxuryportfolio.com
Chicago, IL, USA
USD $6,500,000
@PROPERTIES CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
Emily Sachs Wong — +1 312 613 0022
esw@atproperties.com
Search CSUY on luxuryportfolio.com
Portsmouth, RI, USA
USD $6,495,000
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES LTD.
Christine Tellefsen — +1 401 451 1515
ctellefsen@residentialproperties.com
Search FZDR on luxuryportfolio.com
Magnificent, five-bedroom, five-bathroom, waterfront estate with over 5,300 square feet in historic Cape Haze, built in 2021 on nearly an acre with 35-plus feet of seawall. Surrounded by Pelican Bay and the Intracoastal, enjoy panoramic views, excellent dockage and quick Gulf access. Features include concrete pilings, impact windows, a metal roof, 80KW generator, soaring great room, chef’s kitchen, luxurious primary suite and expansive outdoor living with heated pool and spa. Minutes to Boca Grande, beaches, golf and world-class boating and fishing.
Placida, FL, USA
USD $6,500,000
MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY
John Harms — +1 941 232 5397
johnharms@michaelsaunders.com
Search KUIF on luxuryportfolio.com
St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
USD $6,450,000
SEA GLASS PROPERTIES
Abigail Schnell O’Connell — +1 340 998 1934
abby@holidayhomesvi.com
Search YUYT on luxuryportfolio.com
Arden, NC, USA
USD $5,895,000
HOWARD HANNA BEVERLY-HANKS REAL ESTATE
Josh Smith — +1 828 606 0974
josh@walnutcoverealty.com
Search PJIT on luxuryportfolio.com
Bedford Corners, NY, USA
USD $6,250,000
WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE
Nikki McMann — +1 917 349 4763
nikki.mcmann@raveis.com
Search TCAQ on luxuryportfolio.com
Sturgeon Bay, WI, USA
USD $5,795,000
SHOREWEST, REALTORS®
Erika Skogg — +1 917 532 5496
ESkogg@shorewest.com
Search AGUQ on luxuryportfolio.com
St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
USD $5,750,000
SEA GLASS PROPERTIES
Abigail Schnell O’Connell — +1 340 998 1934
abby@holidayhomesvi.com
Search QUUG on luxuryportfolio.com
Poised above the turquoise expanse of Dreeket’s Bay, La Pura Vida Villa is an architectural triumph of effortless elegance and modern luxury. This five-bedroom retreat invites a life of serenity, with sunlit interiors, chef’s kitchen adorned with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances and sweeping verandas that blur the line between indoors and out. An infinityedge pool with cascading waterfall sets the stage for unforgettable Caribbean living.
Orleans, MA, USA
USD $5,750,000
WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE
Nikki Carter — +1 508 410 0558
nikki.carter@raveis.com
Search XHNA on luxuryportfolio.com
Olathe, KS, USA
USD $5,550,000
REECENICHOLS REAL ESTATE
Missy Hutton — +1 913 481 7102
missyhutton@reecenichols.com
Search JPXX on luxuryportfolio.com
Castle Rock, CO, USA
USD $5,600,000
KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE
Edie Marks — +1 303 905 0744
emarks@kentwood.com
Search BJUW on luxuryportfolio.com
Boerne, TX, USA
USD $5,400,000
PHYLLIS BROWNING COMPANY
Jamie Amerman — +1 210 315 8122
jamerman@phyllisbrowning.com
Search UAHJ on luxuryportfolio.com
Discover unparalleled luxury at 347 Overlook Trail, Horse River Ranch, Gunnison, Colorado. This mountain-modern masterpiece spans over 35 acres, boasting sleek, contemporary design and panoramic views of the Gunnison Valley. The 3,753-square-foot main home features four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms and soaring 22-foot ceilings, while a newly built 1,088-square-foot guesthouse offers two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Enjoy the expansive 3,600-square-foot outbuilding with a fitness center. Complete with horse facilities, this is a rare opportunity for refined country living.
Gunnison, Colorado, USA
USD $5,500,000
BLUEBIRD REAL ESTATE
B. Cooper/C. Mitchell — +1 970 275 8022
bcteam@bbre1.com
Search MWMQ on luxuryportfolio.com
Arden, NC, USA
USD $5,495,000
HOWARD HANNA BEVERLY-HANKS REAL ESTATE
Kyle Olinger — +1 828 712 5953
kyle@walnutcoverealty.com
Search BMSA on luxuryportfolio.com
Punctuated with thoughtful touches, this home embraces like a best friend. Designed by The Architectural Practice and built by Glennwood Custom Builders, every space is designed and delivered with exceptional quality. The naturally bright living room invites you to enjoy coffee overlooking Walnut Cove’s 11th golf hole. The oversized spa, complete with waterfall, invites you to unwind as fireflies dance over the valley. Even though your sanctuary feels worlds away, you are a short stroll to Walnut Cove’s Club Village for top-shelf dining and merrymaking.
Highlands, NC, USA
USD $5,200,000
HOWARD HANNA ALLEN TATE REAL ESTATE
P. Allen/J. Osborn — +1 828 200 9179
pat.allen@howardhannatate.com
Search OHYL on luxuryportfolio.com
Welcome to an extraordinary European-style estate in Highlands, where refined mountain living meets timeless charm. This awardwinning, custom-designed home and guest cottage boast sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Old Edwards Golf Course and a lake. Features include a slate roof, luxury Miele kitchen, sunroom, deck and elegant interiors. The guest cottage offers two en-suite bedrooms, an old-world stucco fireplace and storybook charm. Offered fully furnished, this is luxury mountain living at its finest.
Siesta Key, FL, USA
USD $5,200,000
MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY
Rudy Dudon & Sophia Dudon — +1 941 234 3991
rudydudon@michaelsaunders.com
Search AUNK on luxuryportfolio.com
Discover the epitome of luxury living in this stunning beachfront penthouse on Siesta Key’s Crescent Beach. Boasting 2,562 square feet, this three-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence offers panoramic Gulf views, seamless indoor-outdoor living, chef’s kitchen with Wolf appliances and a spacious patio with outdoor kitchen. The primary suite features a spa-inspired bath and mesmerizing vistas. Enjoy direct beach access, world-class amenities and on-site rental management for income potential. Pets are welcome, making this an ideal retreat for relaxation and sophistication.
Zürich, Switzerland
PRICE UPON REQUEST
NOBILIS ESTATE AG
David Hauptmann — +41 44 266 60 39
desk@nobilis-estate.com
Search QHWD on luxuryportfolio.com
Providence, RI, USA
USD $4,495,000
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES LTD.
Derek Simpson — +1 401 487 2620
dsimpson@residentialproperties.com
Search EZHY on luxuryportfolio.com
Mendham Boro, NJ, USA
USD $4,700,000
TURPIN REAL ESTATE, INC.
Gerry-Jo Cranmer — +1 908 234 9100
gerryjo@turpinrealtors.com
Search AUYO on luxuryportfolio.com
Hendersonville, NC, USA
USD $4,495,000
HOWARD HANNA BEVERLY-HANKS REAL ESTATE C. Dixon/S. Garrett — +1 828 989 2236 garrettdixon.group@howardhannatate.com
Search QSKR on luxuryportfolio.com
Lake Bluff, IL, USA
USD $4,495,000
@PROPERTIES CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
Ann Lyon — +1 847 828 9991
alyon@atproperties.com
Search YCBP on luxuryportfolio.com
New Canaan, CT, USA
USD $3,998,000
WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE
April + Kelly — +1 203 451 6757
aprilandkelly@raveis.com
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Reno, NV, USA
USD $4,450,000
DICKSON REALTY R. Dickson/N. Fennell — +1 775 691 2674
This stunning, seven-bedroom, 8.5-bathroom estate on 1.22 acres offers 6,842 square feet of luxury living. Highlights include a chef’s kitchen with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, 14-foot ceilings, a guesthouse with a theater and Control4 smart-home system. Each bedroom features an en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet. The primary suite boasts custom cabinetry and three closets. Outdoors, enjoy a heated pool, koi pond and alfresco grill. The whole-home generator adds convenience.
Plantation, FL, USA
USD $4,200,000
THE KEYES COMPANY Alex Blanco — +1 305 308 2718 alexblanco@keyes.com Search PDAH on luxuryportfolio.com
St Petersburg, FL, USA
USD $3,800,000
COASTAL PROPERTIES GROUP INTERNATIONAL — FORBES GLOBAL PROPERTIES
Yes-Homes Team — +1 727 643 7346
luxury@yes-homes.com
Search RCYH on luxuryportfolio.com
Rhinebeck, NY, USA
USD $3,750,000
HOULIHAN LAWRENCE
Peggy Santamorena — +1 845 399 3999
psantamorena@houlihanlawrence.com
Search UDVB on luxuryportfolio.com
Sandy, UT, USA
USD $3,750,000
WINDERMERE REAL ESTATE — SOUTHWEST
Jim Kelley — +1 435 901 1262
jimkelley@wincre.com
Search CQJT on luxuryportfolio.com
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
USD $3,495,000
CDR BIENES RAICES SAN MIGUEL
Jessica Patterson — +52 415 105 6572
jessica@cdrsanmiguel.com
Search IVID on luxuryportfolio.com
Atlanta, GA, USA
USD $3,495,000
HARRY NORMAN, REALTORS®
Madeleine Kotora — +1 404 277 8126
madeleine.kotora@harrynorman.com
Search PIMQ on luxuryportfolio.com
Richmond, VA, USA
USD $3,250,000
JOYNER FINE PROPERTIES
Jeannette Mock — +1 804 714 6469
jeannette.mock@joynerfp.com
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Clearwater Beach, FL, USA
USD $3,495,000
COASTAL PROPERTIES GROUP INTERNATIONAL — FORBES GLOBAL PROPERTIES
A country estate in South Africa surrounds its residents with nature and community
By KIRAN GILL
Nestled amidst stunning mountain views and ensconced within the Val de Vie Estate is a seven-bedroom, ninebathroom property that redefines modern country living, where lovers of the great outdoors can enjoy an active lifestyle at this South African retreat. With a seamless blend of luxury, security and outdoor adventure, it presents an ideal environment for those who crave space, tranquility and proximity to the natural world.
“Val de Vie allows a carefree lifestyle with state-of-the-art security and numerous world-class facilities,” says Amanda Colombo, the home’s listing agent at Chas Everitt International Property Group. “The outdoor lifestyle and sense of security are what the residents value the most.”
Set on a vast, seven-acre plot, the home is as much a secluded haven as it is part of a thriving lifestyle community. Beyond their property, homeowners can take advantage of the private estate’s dynamic offerings, such as scenic views of nature ranging from sprawling olive groves and vineyards to gardens and a quaint pond with an enclosure for livestock. The idyll even includes an on-site pick-your-ownflowers microfarm.
A defining feature of the estate is its two-and-a-half miles of uninterrupted riverfront along the Berg River. Residents can picnic by the water’s edge, wander through pristine parks or lose themselves in more than 13 miles of landscaped pathways. The setting invites awe and stillness in equal measure, with every turn offering a postcard-worthy view of one of South Africa’s most stunning regions.
The estate lends itself well to the active, with easy access to 26 miles of mountain trails and 13 miles of running routes. For horse enthusiasts, there are paddocks and top equestrian facilities for riding and a polo club that hosts prestigious events. A wellness hub caters to nearly every sport’s needs with basketball and tennis courts, cricket nets, lawn bowling, a rugby field, Olympic-sized swimming pool, yoga and Pilates studios, and a running track along with state-of-the-art gyms.
All images throughout courtesy of Chas Everitt International Property Group
The home itself is an impressive continuation of the Val de Vie lifestyle, zoned to accommodate up to 10 farm animals, including horses. “Magnificent views, a private solarium and the English country-style gardens surrounding the property are just a few of the features of this amazing home,” Ms. Colombo adds.
The residence is a modern architectural gem, marked by soaring arched entryways, doors and ceilings that lend a stately yet inviting air. Expansive windows in nearly every room frame panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while flooding the interiors with natural light. At the heart of the home is a show-stopping solarium, where a 15-yard swimming pool is bathed in sunshine throughout the day. Adjacent to the pool is a private gym and steam room, as well as an additional flexible space suited for a Pilates studio, spa retreat or extra storage.
Designed for effortless entertaining, the open-plan kitchen is equipped with deluxe, professional-grade appliances and a wood-burning fireplace that brings warmth and charm to cooler evenings. For outdoor dining, residents and guests can enjoy a built-in pizza oven and braai grill, ideal for relaxed afternoons that stretch into lively evenings. Whether hosting a formal dinner or a casual garden party, the home offers a wealth of indoor and outdoor spaces to gather, including balconies, a covered patio and landscaped garden dotted with lemon trees and fragrant flora.
THE SLEEPING QUARTERS are equally considered. One wing of the home houses four en-suite bedrooms and a lounge with a fireplace, offering privacy and comfort for guests or family members. The primary suite is located in a separate wing, providing a true retreat for the homeowner, the space’s atmosphere of serenity enhanced by a private balcony and sparkling chandelier. The suite would be incomplete without the enviable dressing room and expansive bathroom, which includes a walk-in shower and gold-plated, standalone tub opposite a double vanity.
Estate, where this
WEB ID: FMWH 8
Beyond the bedrooms, the house includes a scullery, laundry room and six-car garage. The lower level of the home offers flexible potential, whether as a wine cellar, entertainment room or children’s play area. Rounding out the property are two separate flatlets ideal for extended family, staff or long-term guests. One includes a full living room and kitchen, making it perfectly suited for independent living.
Val de Vie Estate is more than a place to live — it’s a way of life. Each private sanctuary here is equal parts serene and sophisticated, offering the rare opportunity to live expansively in one of South Africa’s most desirable locations.
Location
PAARL, SOUTH AFRICA
Price
ZAR R85,000,000
luxuryportfolio.com
BEHIND THE
WMODERN
HOUSEHOLDS
ARE THRIVING WITH TRADITIONAL HELP — AND THE BUTLERS OF TODAY HAVE EVEN MORE SKILLS
hen one thinks of a butler, they likely envision one of the many famous household managers of fiction: Batman’s ever-loyal Alfred Pennyworth, the comedic British musings of Jeeves or maybe even the towering Addams Family presence of Lurch. They may even see recent historical figures, such as former White House butler Eugene Allen or Grant Harrold, the former servant of King Charles III. All of these representations, real-life or otherwise, are from the past century or so, but the origins of the role date back several hundred years to the medieval ages.
UP THEIR IMPECCABLE SLEEVES
By ZACH JAMES
British nobles and affluent individuals of the era began to adopt the early concepts of a butler into their homes, drawing from the French term bouteillier, meaning “cup-bearer.” The role initially entailed the meticulous management of the employer’s wine cellar, slowly growing over time to encompass the kitchen and, eventually, the entire estate, with the butler becoming a service-focused confidante of their master by the Victorian era.
“By the 19th century, the butler in England was responsible for the entire house as well as the grounds, and his day was consumed with managing the staff and acting as the go-between for staff and principals,” says Steven Ferry, founder and chairman of the U.S-based International Institute of Modern Butlers. “It was a managerial role in the larger houses, and in smaller houses would include hands-on when it came to orchestrating the service at dinner, for instance.”
Butlers now take on duties ranging from finance management to childcare stock.adobe.com 1
Today, the International Guild of Professional Butlers estimates that around 3 million butlers are working around the world, a number that has surged in the past decade, building off of momentum that began in the 1990s. The role has grown in responsibility alongside its increased global presence and the ever-developing demands of high-end clientele.
The position of butler now expands across nearly every facet of an employer’s life, with daily duties including, but not limited to: managing all other house staff (often across multiple properties), fulfilling the responsibilities of a personal assistant, shopping for the home’s daily needs, packing suitcases, driving their client to appointments, serving as a bodyguard during public appearances, preparing meals, thoroughly cleaning residences, entertaining guests and booking flights, hotels and restaurants. Some may be asked to take on more niche responsibilities, such as healthcare, in the case of an elderly or ailing employer, or even stock portfolio management.
Despite many of the job obligations aligning with those of a traditional butler, overall presentation is widely diverging. “Let's say you were the butler of Snoop Dogg, for example — you probably will not wear traditional clothing but, at the same time, he might even like that,” says Niels Deijkers, general manager of The International Butler Academy in the Netherlands. “For certain occasions, certain moments, he may want to have that traditional style, because it elevates something. Still, on the weekend, you would work in your sports clothing — your attire is completely different from what you would imagine of the English traditional butler, who, probably most of the time, would wear a suit with a morning coat. So the attire would change, but language and speech [could as well].”
This switch toward a less formal butler experience coincides with cultural trends, with formalwear being reserved for events rather than daily apparel. While some markets, such as Britain, still prefer the image of the bowtie-wearing butler, most other major business hubs seek out a more laid-back and relaxed helper.
“Nowadays, a lot of people are much more casual and don't want to feel stuffy in their own homes,” adds Steven Laitmon, cofounder and co-CEO of The Calendar Group, a household staffing agency in the U.S. “The modern butler recognizes that and is able to learn what luxury and what service mean to each specific different principle and adapt to that accordingly.”
To meet the expectations of their employers, butlers often attend tailored educational institutions around the globe, honing their household craft with intense hands-on lessons, though some may forgo this and opt for experience at five-star hotels and resorts. At butler schools, students learn a variety of skills, including: deeply optimized household cleaning techniques, the latest technology and software, managerial proficiency, plating and table-setting, how to launder high-end fabrics, pet care, proper etiquette, effective and appropriate communication, cooking, sommelier skills, financial literacy and high-pressure multi-tasking, such as balancing multiple glass plates, bowls and cups while walking with one hand behind their back and a book atop their heads.
These lessons are presented in both traditional classroom environments as well as experiential opportunities across multi-week programs at schools such as The International Butler Academy and the International Institute of Modern Butlers.
As for why people choose to enter the field and train to become a butler, reasons vary greatly for each person. Mr. Deijkers considered attending the school he now manages for nearly a decade before taking the leap, seeking change from his routine after carving out a career in high-end construction.
The summer 2025 class of The International Butler Academy casts a wide net, from one professional wanting to improve their proficiencies gained over a multiple-decade career to a student seeking to deepen their understanding of people’s wants and desires for a future career in the mental health field. Others simply wish to elevate their current workplace’s service standards or gain useful life skills.
According to Nathalie Laitmon, cofounder and co-CEO of The Calendar Group, high-end hospitality, specifically that of a butler, is a pursuit that goes beyond one’s mindset and aspirations. “In our industry, we talk about having something we call a service heart,” she explains. “A lot of people know that they have this at an early age, but don’t necessarily know they want to be in this industry. They just know that they’re caretakers at heart, that they’re sensitive to other people’s preferences and they get their joy from taking care of other people. So, by the time they arrive to us, you can really get a sense of when that’s authentic or not.”
When one seeks out hiring household staff, they typically go through a dedicated home hospitality agency. These organizations, both big and small, seek to meet the client’s needs in vastly different ways. For example, going with a larger, global entity could provide a greater breadth of candidates as well as enhanced security and compatibility screenings, while smaller businesses may offer more personalized and direct round-the-clock service.
“I WOULD LOOK for an agency that’s large and established,” advises Anita Rodgers, founder and president of British American Household Staffing. “If you look at how big their team is...you want to see ops, management, [talent acquisition] and marketing. That means they have money and they’ve done well in the business.”
Hiring a butler can drastically enhance the day-to-day of everyone within the household, as the professionals are trained to both cater to and anticipate the principal and their family’s wants and needs. Caretakers at this level can especially help those with nontraditional, often 24/7, work schedules that leave little time for household management and much of the daily minutiae one would forget with a lifestyle lacking an off switch. Butlers put something priceless back in the hands of their employers: time.
“The most valuable thing in life is time,” Mr. Deijkers says. “You cannot buy time, but you can make sure that everything is arranged so you can live your life. If you then consider the modern butler, all the modern butler does is make sure that you are able to live the life that you want.”
2
Butler duties can include planning, booking and even packing for travel
3
A home under butler management means every detail is impeccable
Butlers often serve as help during parties and other events held at home
All photos: stock.adobe.com 4
GINORI 1735
Teapot, Oriente Italiano Castagna
$700 | ginori1735.com
ARTEMEST
Nunzia Ponsillo Condiviso 4-Tier Sage Green/White Carrara Serving Stand
$1,700 | artemest.com
BACCARAT Harcourt Mustard Jar
$320 Through select retailers
By EMMA ROSE LORENZEN
CHRISTOFLE
Carrousel 24-Piece
Silver-Plated Flatware Set
$4,750
christofle.com
1STDIBS
Brass and Steel Bottle Opener, 1970’s France $1,500 | 1stdibs.com
| artemest.com
Asheville, NC, USA
USD $3,410,000
HOWARD HANNA BEVERLY-HANKS REAL ESTATE
Ann Skoglund — +1 828 273 0277
ann.skoglund@howardhannatate.com
Search TISO on luxuryportfolio.com
Exceptional design and details conspire to create this amazing home, architect-designed for citizens of the world. Ethereal views of downtown Asheville and the mystic mountains create a balance of beauty between the interior and the site. For the sophisticated owners, who have lived in Asia and Africa, the home creates a showcase for their treasures amidst a lifestyle that blends open, casual living with panache for elegant entertaining. The custom, bronze double entry doors give a preview of what lies within.
Dundee, NS, Canada
CAD $4,175,000
CAPE BRETON REALTY
Sherry MacLeod — +1 902 227 7533
sherry@capebretonrealty.com
Search EIKK on luxuryportfolio.com
Set on the stunning east coast of Canada with 500 feet of shoreline on the Bras d’Or Lake — a saltwater estuary and mecca cherished by sailors and naturalists — this extraordinary retreat sits below the indigo hills of the renowned Dundee Golf Resort. The custom, contemporary, terraced home, designed by award-winning architect Drew Sperry, features ship-inspired, multi-level solarium windows reinforced to withstand coastal storms. A striking blend of nature, design and Atlantic beauty.
Sorengo, Switzerland
PRICE UPON REQUEST
WETAG CONSULTING
Philipp Peter — +41 91 601 04 50
peter@wetag.ch
Search TJNF on luxuryportfolio.com
Lake Lure, NC, USA
USD $2,950,000
HOWARD HANNA BEVERLY-HANKS REAL ESTATE
Jennifer Saltouros — +1 847 338 3978
jennifer.saltouros@howardhannatate.com
Search XRBQ on luxuryportfolio.com
Sarasota, FL, USA
USD $2,995,000
MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY
Rudy Dudon & Sophia Dudon — +1 941 234 3991
rudydudon@michaelsaunders.com
Search DLBH on luxuryportfolio.com
Chicago, IL, USA
USD $2,950,000
@PROPERTIES CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
Christopher Mundy — +1 773 490 6813
chrismundy@atproperties.com
Search MZJD on luxuryportfolio.com
Imagine owning a stunning, 27-acre private island in Marble Mountain, Nova Scotia, on Canada’s beautiful east coast. Accessed by a private, gated bridge, this fully equipped property includes a three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home, guesthouse, boathouse, garage, wharf, boat launch and even a condo garage near the international airport in Halifax — just a five-hour flight to Europe. Marble Mountain sits on the Bras d’Or Lake, where a historic marble quarry left a white lakebed that gives the water a brilliant glow.
Marble Mountain, NS, Canada
CAD $4,049,000
CAPE BRETON REALTY
Sherry MacLeod — +1 902 227 7533
sherry@capebretonrealty.com
Search ZNAY on luxuryportfolio.com
Chicago, IL, USA
USD $2,868,000
@PROPERTIES CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
Christopher Mundy — +1 773 490 6813
chrismundy@atproperties.com
Search LVGO on luxuryportfolio.com
Hendersonville, NC, USA
USD $2,750,000
HOWARD HANNA BEVERLY-HANKS REAL ESTATE
Margo Barbee — +1 828 329 9201
margo.barbee@howardhannatate.com
Search JVFF on luxuryportfolio.com
Salt Lake City, UT, USA
USD $2,800,000
WINDERMERE REAL ESTATE — SOUTHWEST
Makenzie Kink Winder — +1 435 300 0663
makenzie@winutah.com
Search GEVQ on luxuryportfolio.com
Provincia de Guanacaste, Costa Rica
USD $2,690,000
KRAIN COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE
Sarah & Peter Breitlander — +1 866 994 9163
info@kraincostarica.com
Search HXDQ on luxuryportfolio.com
Franconia, NH, USA
USD $2,850,000
BADGER PEABODY & SMITH REALTY
Badger Peabody & Smith Realty — +1 603 823 5700
info@badgerpeabodysmith.com
Search CHOV on luxuryportfolio.com
Luxury mountain retreat with breathtaking views of Lafayette Range and Cannon.
Exquisite stone, wood and fir beams blend seamlessly with nature. Vaulted ceilings, sunlit rooms and a private pond create a warm, elegant escape. First-floor primary suite, guest en-suites, open kitchen and expansive living spaces. Close to trails, near village, captivating towns, golf and recreation. Live, work and play in the heart of the White Mountains.
Grosse Ile, MI, USA
USD $2,500,000
REINHART REALTORS
Jennifer Baghdoian — +1 517 812 7875
jbaghdoian@reinhartrealtors.com
Search LECI on luxuryportfolio.com
Boston, MA, USA
USD $2,495,000
WILLIAM RAVEIS REAL ESTATE
Elizabeth Crowley — +1 617 797 8659
elizabeth.crowley@raveis.com
Search VHQJ on luxuryportfolio.com
Lakewood Ranch, FL, USA
USD $2,500,000
MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY
Rudy Dudon & Sophia Dudon — +1 941 234 3991
rudydudon@michaelsaunders.com
Search LZGN on luxuryportfolio.com
Siesta Key, FL, USA
USD $2,450,000
MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY
Rudy Dudon & Sophia Dudon — +1 941 234 3991
rudydudon@michaelsaunders.com
Search YCAN on luxuryportfolio.com
Discover the perfect blend of mountain charm and convenience in this beautiful, three-bedroom, three-bathroom, end-unit townhome in the sought-after Fawngrove community in Lower Deer Valley. Winter offers effortless access to skiing, while summer brings endless adventure — paddleboard from your backyard or stroll to Park City’s historic Old Town for dining, shopping and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a year-round residence, vacation home or investment property, this townhome has it all. Don’t miss the chance to own a slice of mountain paradise.
Park City, UT, USA
USD $2,500,000
WINDERMERE REAL ESTATE — SOUTHWEST T. Farrell/D. Fetters — +1 435 631 2867
traci@liveloveparkcity.com
Search TTBD on luxuryportfolio.com
Mill Spring, NC, USA
USD $2,500,000
HOWARD HANNA BEVERLY-HANKS REAL ESTATE
H. Chambers/J. Murphy — +1 828 600 5132 brightscreek.team@howardhannatate.com
Search GKWV on luxuryportfolio.com
Welcome to Sorrel Grove, an enchanting English lodge nestled in the serene beauty of Bright’s Creek Golf Equestrian Community. Offering unparalleled views that captivate the soul, this spacious abode boasts an abundance of room while maintaining a cozy ambiance. Immerse yourself in breathtaking sunrise vistas that greet you each morning. Step into the meticulously maintained English garden, where the fragrance of blossoms mingles with the crisp mountain air. Escape to your private retreat in the heart of nature.
Recently completed with a modern edge and stunning mountain views in the gated community of Bright’s Creek. Refined mountain living in this newly built, tastefully decorated home set on a large, beautifully landscaped lot. Enjoy panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from multiple outdoor living spaces, including an expansive deck, wonderful fire pit area and covered terrace-level patio with a stone fireplace perfect for year-round entertaining. Inside, the open-concept design, quality finishes and natural light create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Experience exceptional craftsmanship at 20 Narrows Run Loop, a stunning, waterfront retreat on Bowing Lake in the gated Carriage Park community. This four-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom, 4,626-square-foot home offers en-suite baths, one-step entry and an elevator to all levels. Enjoy vaulted ceilings, Brazilian-cherry floors, four gas fireplaces and a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, Wolf stove and custom hood. The luxurious primary suite features a spa bath. Close to dining, hospitals and arts in Hendersonville, Asheville and beyond.
Hendersonville, NC, USA
USD $1,750,000
HOWARD HANNA BEVERLY-HANKS REAL ESTATE W. Listrom/W. Hight — +1 828 708 7275
wyatt.listrom@howardhannatate.com Search MVUR on luxuryportfolio.com
Cape Town, South Africa
ZAR 30,000,000
JAWITZ PROPERTIES
Mark Taylor — +27 21 794 5500 constantia@jawitz.co.za Search LXXN on luxuryportfolio.com
Welcome to this majestic home, nestled in the heart of Nova Constantia on an expansive 1.5-acre plot. This modern home is a true marvel of design and craftsmanship, offering an unparalleled living experience. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a meticulously landscaped garden filled with diverse fynbos plants, creating a serene oasis. Its north-facing orientation ensures that you’ll enjoy ample sunlight and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The home boasts two swimming pools, including one that is heated, perfect for year-round relaxation.
Highlands, NC, USA
USD $1,650,000
HOWARD HANNA ALLEN TATE REAL ESTATE
D. Conley/A. Stoneham — +1 404 427 2448
darlene.conley@howardhannatate.com Search SXFH on luxuryportfolio.com
This charming cottage, situated within Wildcat Cliffs Country Club in Highland, North Carolina, exemplifies mountain elegance, tranquility and privacy. This cottage is perfect for fall evenings on the screened porch by the fire while listening to the soothing sounds from the backyard waterfall. The open-concept living and dining room boasts cathedral ceilings accented with a stacked-stone, wood-burning fireplace as the focal point. The primary bedroom and bathroom are generously sized. The primary bath includes a large walk-in shower and double vanities.
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
USD $1,525,000
CDR BIENES RAICES SAN MIGUEL
Ann Dolan — +52 415 103 3179
anndolan@cdrsanmiguel.com
Search GUVL on luxuryportfolio.com
New Hampton, NH, USA
USD $1,199,000
BADGER PEABODY & SMITH REALTY
Badger Peabody & Smith Realty — +1 603 238 6990
info@badgerpeabodysmith.com
Search YWHP on luxuryportfolio.com
New Providence, Bahamas
BSD $1,350,000
BAHAMAS REALTY LIMITED
Adama Hunt — +1 242 396 0019
ahunt@bahamasrealty.com
Search DWHP on luxuryportfolio.com
Groot Brakrivier, South Africa
ZAR 19,499,000
JAWITZ PROPERTIES
Tertius du Toit — + 27 44 023 0284
mosselbay@jawitz.co.za
Search TQVL on luxuryportfolio.com
Nestled in the heart of the northern Georgia and western North Carolina mountains, this stunning residence is a masterful blend of privacy, timeless design and natural beauty. With sweeping, long-range, panoramic views of the surrounding national forest, every window frames a captivating vista — offering a constant connection to the serene mountain landscape. This thoughtfully designed home features warm wood finishes, clean architectural lines, expansive windows and openconcept living.
Scaly Mountain, NC, USA
USD $1,125,000
HOWARD HANNA ALLEN TATE REAL ESTATE D. Conley/A. Stoneham — +1 404 427 2448
darlene.conley@howardhannatate.com Search QMHX on luxuryportfolio.com
WE DELIVER ACCESS, INSIGHTS AND SOPHISTICATED GUIDANCE to discerning clients around the world. As the luxury division of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World,® we have a direct relationship with the very best independent property brokerages and the most well-connected and successful top agents in cities around the globe.
MORE THAN $272 BILLION in U.S. home sales are handled by the members of our network each year.
ONLY 20% of brokerages applying qualify for Luxury Portfolio International membership
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Together, these pillars deliver superior and measurable results for our clients. We are more than a label. We are people in more than 30 countries and territories trained in the art and science of selling the world’s most unique and desirable properties.
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Every year, numerous affluent consumers visit our website, luxuryportfolio.com, to browse in a setting dedicated solely to significant properties and a discerning lifestyle. These are high-net-worth-buyers, not dreamers. YOUR
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OUR NETWORK IS CONNECTED TO LUXURY EXPERTS AND BUYERS IN 800+ MAJOR CITIES, FROM BANGKOK TO BARCELONA, not just within one brand or company, but among the finest, most well-known leaders in each market. These relationships generate thousands of client introductions and billions in sales each year.
MEMBER DIRECTORY
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MEMBER COMPANIES
Argentina
Central Real Estate Argentina Buenos Aires | maxre.com.ar
Australia
Belle Property Australia | Sydney belleproperty.com
Austria
von Poll Immobilien GmbH | See Germany
Bahamas
Bahamas Realty Limited | Nassau bahamasrealty.com
Page: 57, 124
Keys Bahamas Realty | Freeport keysbahamas.com
Barbados
One Caribbean Estates | Holetown onecaribbeanestates.com
Belgium
Immobiliere Le Lion | Brussels immo-lelion.be
Belize
VISTA Real Estate | Belize City belizerealestate.bz
Brazil
Coelho da Fonseca | São Paulo coelhodafonseca.com.br
British Virgin Islands
Smiths Gore Limited | Tortola smithsgore.com
Bulgaria
Unique Estates Ltd. | Sofia | ues.bg/en
LEARN MORE about LPI member companies and brokers near you at luxuryportfolio.com/brokers
Canada
ALBERTA
CIR Realty | Calgary | cirrealty.ca
Rimrock Real Estate | Edmonton rimrockrealestate.ca
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Macdonald Realty Ltd. | Vancouver macrealty.com
Whistler Real Estate Ltd. | Whistler whistlerrealestate.ca
NOVA SCOTIA
Cape Breton Realty | St. Peter’s capebrentonrealty.com
Page: 111, 113
Del Mar Realty Inc. Canso and Guysborough County delmarrealty.ca
ONTARIO
Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage | Toronto bosleyrealestate.com
